Steve Gfell answers the call

NORWALK — Steve Gfell has been named new executive director of Answering the Call Together (ACT). Gfell replaces Dave Wallace, who was recognized at the June 12 meeting for his contributions to the organization. Wallace reflected on his 13 years as the director and his growth spiritually during that time. He said it was a blessing to lead ACT all of this time. Gfell and his wife, Nancy, have two children, Abigail, a senior at BGSU, and Thomas, a junior at the College of Wooster. The couple reside in Norwalk. Steve was born and raised in Norwalk, graduating from Norwalk High School in 1985. He went on to a successful career as a Domino's franchisee owning 21 units, his most at one time. He remains a franchisee with one unit remaining after downsizing after 30 years, winning several Domino's national awards along the way. He also served on the Domino's national franchise association as a member of their board for 2 terms acting as the vice-chair. He has also pursued an avocation in football officiating. He officiated for 33 years and attained a position on a Division I staff until his retirement in 2018 because of an illness. Since retirement from football and Domino's, Gfell has joined several boards and has become much more active in the community. He is starting his fifth season as an assistant football coach at Norwalk High School, a member of the Norwalk Area United Fund board and a member of the NEDC RISE committee that assist local businesses. Steve and his family are members of the First Presbyterian Church in Norwalk where he has served as an Elder. He said he looks forward to taking on the role as executive director for ACT.