Over 700 people stood in ovation at the Branson Chamber’s 2016 Black Tie Gala when Duane and Kay Gerken were honored with the Pioneer Award. The Pioneer Award was instituted in 1986 and presented to people who have demonstrated outstanding service to the community for at least 15 years.
The Pioneer Award winner’s video showcased the lifetime achievements of Kay and Duane Gerken including both serving as Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors® Presidents as well as Presidents of Missouri Association of Realtors®. Other accolades include leadership roles with Missouri Association of Realtors and Japan through the Missouri Department of Economic Development, influential roles with Missouri’s legislators to protect private property rights, and helped create a business friendly environment in Missouri.
Both Gerkens served on numerous committees to better Branson such as the Legislative Affairs Committee, Planning & Zoning, Charter Treasurer for Christian Action Ministries, Charter President of the Branson Tri-Lakes Lions Club, Ozark River Heritage Foundation, Chairman of the Board for the College of the Ozarks Associates, Chamber Ambassador and supporters of the Branson Arts Council and Taneyhills Community Library. Most recently, Gerkens celebrated 40 years as the longest continuously owned real estate firm in Branson.
