Jeffrey M. Zelka – Class of 1984 – has assembled an extraordinary record of service to the residents of Colonie since graduating from high school 31 years ago. He is known locally as a “go-to person” in nearly every facet of his life from his career and public safety work, to his parenting, and continuous volunteerism in school and church programs, and youth athletics.

Zelka has been employed by the Town of Colonie since 1985, and today serves in the Fleet Maintenance Department, requisitioning parts and coordinating maintenance and repairs of all town vehicles and equipment. He was a volunteer member of the Shaker Road Loudonville Fire Department for 18 years, moving up the ranks from Firefighter to Lieutenant and Captain and rounding out his career as First and Second Assistant Chief. He also received the Human Action Award for his rescue efforts at a structure fire in May 2001, and was named Most Improved Firefighter by the Fire Department in 1997.

During his tenure, he obtained numerous fire department certificates and trained members in various areas of firematics. During his career in public safety, Zelka was a Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for eight years. He earned two lifesaving awards from the Regional Emergency Management Organization of Hudson Valley in 1996 and 1998 for the Reversal of Cardiac Arrest. Zelka’s community service extends to his church, St. Pius X, where he has been a member all of his life. He has taught religious education and has served on various committees during the last 30 years.

Zelka returned to his South Colonie alma mater supporting his daughters’ theater productions as a set construction volunteer and later joining the Sand Creek Middle School PTA. As a member, he became involved with many school activities, eventually becoming the PTA President, the first male president in the school’s history. When Sand Creek was introduced to the Olweus Bully Prevention Program, he volunteered to become certified as a trainer; supporting the South Colonie School District’s new program. His strong anti-bully convictions lead him to coordinate the “Hug the School” campaign — symbolizing Sand Creek student’s embrace of a bully-free environment. As his children moved to Colonie Central High School, so did his school support, continuing his PTA service as a volunteer, PTSA Vice President for three years, CCHS Building Planning Team Parent Representative, member of the Raiderfest planning committee, and drama performance volunteer.

District-wide, Zelka has been a member of the South Colonie PTA Council, Assistant Clerk for South Colonie budget and school board votes, and a member of the District Bus Stop Review Committee. In May 2015, the New York State PTA recognized his 10+ years of service to the students and the organization’s ideals with honorary lifetime membership.

Zelka’s strong dedication and leadership was recognized by his high school baseball peers earning him the prestigious Cleary Award in his senior year at CCHS. His love of the sport and easy leadership and mentorship style led him to assist and coach his daughters’ West Albany Athletic League softball teams for 10 years. These characteristics lead him to serve as an Albany County Election Board Committeeman from 1998-2008. Today he serves as Assistant Director for the Albany-Schenectady Harley Owners Group.

During his lifetime, Zelka has prided himself as a role model for young people. But perhaps one of his biggest achievements, as he will proudly tell you, is his recovery from alcoholism. Now sober over 10 years, he candidly speaks to young people about the dangerous effects the disease can have on all facets of a person’s life. His commitment to his family and community, that he has served for over 30 years, are the cornerstones of his continued sobriety.

He is honored to call Colonie his home and hopes that his contributions and triumphs have and will continue to serve current and future generations.