Duke, ‘81, & Cyrie, ‘78, Wortmann
When asking Duke and Cyrie Wortmann about the secret to the success of their thirty-six year marriage, Cyrie mentions “humor, effective communication, and having similar interests and emotional reactions.” The couple also share a deep commitment to Colorado Mesa University and to the Grand Valley.
Born and raised in Grand Junction, Cyrie Wortmann (formerly Gieske) graduated from Mesa in 1978 with a business and accounting degree. Cyrie also obtained her real estate license in 1978 and has been a full-time realtor since 1994.
Duke’s family was originally from the East Coast. After graduating from Westhill High School in Stamford, Connecticut, Duke attended Mesa. He graduated with a degree in business management in 1981. Throughout the years, Duke has attend nearly every sporting event at Colorado Mesa University. For Duke, the student-athletes are the epitome of true sports and pure dedication.
While Duke and Cyrie are now of retirement age, they show no sign of slowing down. The couple now focus on giving back to the community that has given them so much. As one well-versed in the local history, Cyrie can highlight every aspect of life in the Grand Valley to help families find the perfect home. As a city council member of District D, Duke has been part of coffee meetings that are as much a vehicle for the council’s transparency as they are to engage with the community.
It’s when you take the time to sit down with the Wortmanns for a cup of coffee that you begin to understand these involved citizens are equally enthusiastic about the town they call home and the university they have come to love.
“We like to give back in rhythms,” said Duke. •