The best-kept secret in Callaway County is out.
Doc Kritzer is the 116th Kingdom of Callaway Supper president, succeeding current president Bennie Young.
"Whether you've lived here for a year or all your life, something Doc has done has probably made your life a little easier or a little better, whether you know it or not," said Rob Wright, chair of the nominating committee, adding the committee's choice was unanimous. "He gets things done, he's been everywhere and he's represented us well."
The president's main duty is tracking down a worthy guest of honor - a Callawegian who's found success beyond the county's borders. The guest of honor then attends the next supper, which serves as a chance to celebrate Callaway County and meet friends old and new.
"I was surprised and shocked," Kritzer said Tuesday. "It's an honor. Callaway County is so unique in having a tradition like this that's stayed around - to be able to recognize people from our own community that have contributed to the community sets a good example for younger people."
Kritzer has dedicated much of his life to serving the people of Callaway County. That goal is even reflected in his custom license plate: "IHELPU."
Kritzer was born in Callaway County to Dutch and Alleen Kritzer. He graduated from Fulton High School and earned a degree in accounting at Southwest Missouri State University (now Missouri State University). After graduation, he spent two years working for the University of Missouri, 24 years as an area cost analysis for Harbison-Walker Refractories and five years as chief cost accountant for Wire Rope Corporation. He also worked as a licensed real estate agent, currently with Worth Clark Realty's Property Pros.
"I saw things as a Realtor, living in the community, that made me want to make a better plan for Callaway County," he said. "That's why I ran for the county commission."
Kritzer was the Western District Commissioner from 2005-16, and in 2012 became the state president of the County Commissioners Association. In 2016, he was the state president of the Missouri Association of Counties, representing county-elected officials in 114 counties.
"Part of your job as an elected officialsis to go down (to Jefferson City) and lobby so they don't pass laws that run counter to your way of life," Kritzer said. "I enjoyed that aspect of it."
Kritzer helped launch the Central Callaway Fire Protection District in 1979 and served as a firefighter for 25 years, then a fire chief and board president for 15 more years. That passion continues: he now serves on the statewide Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial Foundation board. He's particularly proud of that work, he said. He's equally proud of his 23 flights with the Central Missouri Honor Flight as a guardian.
"I love honoring those veterans, taking them on their trips and saying, 'Thank you for your service,'" he said.
Kritzer also participates as a Callaway Chamber of Commerce ambassador, a member of the Fulton Street Fair and Callaway 200 planning committees, a frequent blood donor (175 units and counting) and a member of the Fulton Public Schools Foundation. In the past, he was involved with the Fulton Colleges Fund and Our House.
"Fulton is laid back enough that it's a good place to raise your family," Kritzer said. "I love the aspect of people who get involved and make it a better county. That's why I got involved in so many activities. They keep reminding me, 'Say no once in a while.'"
Kritzer is married to Linda Logan; their family includes five adult children (Tammy, Kimberley, Darren, Matt Logan and Melissa Logan) and three grandchildren.
Other award winners were also recognized during the evening program. Don Boulware was named the guest of honor: someone born and raised in Callaway County, who has chosen to live elsewhere and has been a positive influence during their lifetime. Sheriff Clay Chism and the Callaway County Sheriff's Office received the Distinguished Service Award. Twillman Feed owner Kenny Twillman received the Settler's Award, which honors someone who's moved to Callaway County and made it a better place to live.
"One of the key characteristics of all of these leaders is they are humble and grateful for being recognized with their honor," said Debbie LaRue, who helps plan the event. "They always say others are more deserving."