The memorial service date has been announced for the longtime Santa Clarita resident and leader, Duane Harte, who died Monday at the age of 68.

 The memorial service is scheduled to be held Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015 at 11 a.m. at The Sanctuary Church on 26444 Friendly Valley Parkway, Santa Clarita 91321 followed by the funeral service at 1:15 p.m. at Eternal Valley Cemetery, 23287 Sierra Highway, Newhall 91321.

A reception will be held at Elks Lodge, 17766 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 91351, at 2:30 p.m.

Harte is survived by his wife of 43 years, Pauline, their two daughters, Donna and Denise, and grandson Evan Alexander.

“Duane Harte was the heart of Santa Clarita. It seems that all things great happening in Santa Clarita had Duane’s involvement,” said Santa Clarita Mayor Pro Tem Bob Kellar. “Certainly, not surprisingly, his last day with us was serving as a volunteer at our annual Festival of Trees Program supporting the Boys & Girls Club.”

Harte and his wife dedicated themselves to the Santa Clarita community.

He served on multiple boards and committees throughout the years, some of his more recent activity included: president of the SCV Veterans Memorial Committee, SCV Historical Society, SCV Chamber of Commerce, SCV Committee on Aging and the Newhall Redevelopment Committee. Harte was also a 17-year member of the Santa Clarita Elks Lodge.

In 2003, Harte was selected as SCV Man of the Year.

He also expressed his love for America by serving 23 years in the Navy Reserves. Harte retired in 1990 as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. He was an active member of the Newhall American Legion 507 and worked for the betterment of veterans.

In 2008, Harte was selected to serve as a Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commissioner where he was presently chairman.

“Today, we all anguish over the loss of Duane Harte; a tremendous void has occurred within our community,” said Kellar. “God bless you, Duane, for all you have done for so many.”

Harte died after an apparent cardiac arrest.