December 31, 2024, marked the end of an era as Dr. James Krieg concluded his distinguished career as a Family Healthcare Physician at Memorial Hospital’s Rural Health Clinics. With an impressive 45 years of service in Chester, IL, Dr. Krieg has provided compassionate and comprehensive care to countless patients.
Dr. Krieg began his practice on January 1, 1980, joining Doctors Isreal Newmark, Milton Zemlyn, and Stephen Platt, who were the lead physicians at the Chester Clinic and part of the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital. His decision to practice in Chester was driven by his appreciation for the stability of the practice and the welcoming community.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Krieg has enjoyed the variety of care he has been able to provide, from performing small surgical procedures and delivering many babies early in his career in the Obstetrics Department (OB) to offering extensive personal care daily. His greatest joy has been the hope that he has made a difference in the lives of those he has cared for.
Dr. Krieg has cherished working with the dedicated team of nurses, providers, and staff who prioritize patient-centered care. Reflecting on his time at Memorial, Dr. Krieg shared, "There is a feeling of teamwork; each person doing their best to meet the needs of the patients." He fondly recalls his favorite memories, saying, "Growing 'old' with those who have been with Memorial Hospital and Chester Clinic for many years. We have shared many 'interesting' experiences. Also, I have enjoyed working alongside some whom I delivered while doing OB."
Dr. Krieg has seen many improvements throughout the years, noting, "The hospital continued to expand, remodel, and push toward staying up to date with changing technology. The most recent development of the Medical Office Building will give years of service for the providers and community."
As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, Dr. Krieg looks forward to spending more time with his family and volunteering. He humorously shared, "My daughter gave me a clock with hour, minute, and second hands but the numbers are all at the bottom, scattered. The inscription reads, 'Whatever...I'm Retired!'"
His contributions to Memorial the community have been invaluable, and his presence will be greatly missed. He expressed what he will miss most, "Serving others; medicine allows the unique opportunity to help people navigate the uncertainties of life. I have been blessed with the strength and health to spend the last 45 years doing what I have loved. Remember: God first, others second, I'm third."
To honor Dr. Krieg’s remarkable career and dedication, Memorial Hospital invites the community to a retirement party open house on January 25th at the Chester Country Club from 2-4 pm. Please join us in celebrating Dr. Krieg’s legacy and wishing him joy and health in his retirement.
Dr. Krieg has been a valued asset to Memorial and the Chester community, and we are forever grateful for the care and compassion he has shown. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.
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