BINGHAM FARMS — Daniel Krichbaum, the former executive director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR), died on Tuesday, Feb. 3 after a cerebral hemorrhage following a stroke, according to relatives. He was 72.  

Krichbaum spent decades championing civil rights. Many Arab American leaders considered Krichbaum a close friend to the community who helped fight for Arab and Muslim causes alongside them. 

He retired from his position with the MDCR in July 2013. He led the MDCR since March 2010.

Prior to his work in state government, Krichbaum served as president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion; executive vice president of Detroit’s public television station, WTVS (Channel 56); director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Detroit and was the minister of several churches in New York and southeast Michigan.

Krichbaum’s memorial service has been set for 2 p.m., on Saturday, February 14th, at First United Methodist Church of Birmingham, 1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham.  The service will be followed by a 3 to 5 p.m. reception. Funeral arrangements are being made by AJ Desmond and Sons.