05/29/2026
KERWIN KITZMAN - ASHOF Class of 2025 - Voice of the North
Kerwin was not on the field, the court, or the ice—but for so many of us, the game wasn’t complete without him. He brought sports to life through the airwaves, turning moments into memories and games into stories that connected an entire community. His voice carried the excitement, the tension, and the pride of Alpena athletics into our lives.
If you ever tuned in to a broadcast, you know exactly what made Kerwin special. It wasn’t just that he described the action—it was how he made you feel like you were part of it. Whether it was a packed rink on a winter night or a crisp Friday under the lights, Kerwin had a way of putting you right there in the moment. You didn’t just hear the game—you experienced it.
But what made him truly remarkable was that he understood what those games meant. In a community like Alpena, sports are more than scores and standings. They are tradition, pride, and connection. Kerwin captured that spirit. He gave recognition to athletes who might not otherwise have had the spotlight, and he made sure their efforts, their determination, and their achievements were heard and remembered.
He was a storyteller. He knew the players, their journeys, and the significance behind each game. He celebrated the big plays, but he also appreciated the small moments—the hustle, the teamwork, the perseverance—that often define both sports and life.
Kerwin was a constant supporter of local athletics. His dedication showed in the countless hours he spent preparing, traveling, and making sure that Alpena’s teams had a voice. He wasn’t doing it for attention—he was doing it because he cared deeply about this community and the people in it.
For many young athletes, hearing their name called during one of Kerwin’s broadcasts was something they never forgot. It was a moment of recognition, a sign that their hard work mattered. And for families, friends, and fans, his voice became a shared experience—something that brought people together, no matter where they were.
His legacy lives on in those memories. It lives on in the echoes of games past, in the excitement he shared, and in the connection he helped build across Alpena. He showed us that you don’t have to be on the rink to make an impact—you just have to care, to show up, and to give your voice to something bigger than yourself.
Congratulations to the late Kerwin Kitzman, our 2025 Voice of the North! Please join us in celebrating his induction on Saturday, June 6th, 2026 at the Aplex! Tickets for the event are $30 and can be purchased at Jimmie Garant’s Party store or through Venmo at .
