By Donna O’Bryant, special to the Tribune

After more than three decades of service to his community and to Sertoma International, longtime Gleneagle resident Duane Gritzmaker has been named to the Sertoma International Hall of Fame, one of the organization’s highest honors, at the Dublin, Ohio international conference October 10-11.

A member of the Gleneagle SERvice TO MAnkind Club since 1989, Gritzmaker has spent 36 years building, leading and mentoring clubs across the organization — helping launch eight Sertoma chapters and inspiring countless members along the way. Known for his steady leadership and generous spirit, he had logged more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service (the top recognized) by 2023, guiding projects that have benefited local youth, military families, and individuals with hearing loss.

Before dedicating himself to community service, Gritzmaker served over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force as a navigator, pilot and instructor, stationed around the world. Together with his wife of nearly 60 years, Barbara, he has also hosted 13 Air Force Academy cadets, offering mentorship and a welcoming home.

“Duane embodies the very heart of Sertoma’s mission — Service to Mankind,” said members of the Gleneagle SERvice TO MAnkind Club in his nomination entry. “He inspires everyone around him to lead and to give back.”

From neighborhood flag displays, to the Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby, to hearing-health initiatives, Gritzmaker’s consistent dedication has made a lasting mark on the Pikes Peak region — and now, on Sertoma’s history.