Falcon Awards Night, held on Wednesday, October 23, at The Gilmore, was a memorable evening celebrating the contributions of five remarkable individuals in the West Catholic community: Most Reverend Bishop David Walkowiak, Jean King, Tom Fewless ’70, and Bill Roersma ’74 and Mark Wurn ’74.
This annual event recognizes the dedication, spirit and accomplishments of honorees who have made a lasting impact on the school. Each award presented serves as a tribute to the recipient’s commitment to excellence, faith and service.
To learn more about our award winners, read their bios below or visit our YouTube playlist to see special video features on all the honorees.
FALCON AWARDS NIGHT PLAYLIST
Lifetime Achievement Award – Most Reverend David Walkowiak, Bishop of the Diocese of Grand Rapids
Bishop David J. Walkowiak, born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, credits his 24 years of Catholic education for shaping his life. After serving as pastor at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Ohio, he was appointed by Pope Francis as the 12th bishop of the Diocese of Grand Rapids in 2013. Bishop Walkowiak has expanded Catholic organizations, enhanced Hispanic ministry, fostered vocations through the Diaconate Formation Program and Vocations Prayer Initiative, and oversaw the opening of two new Catholic schools in the Diocese among other achievements during his tenure.
Falcon by Choice Award – Jean King
Jean King knew when she met her husband Don that a Catholic education for their children was something they desired. Although Jean did not attend West Catholic, her two children, Lauren ’16 and Alex ’18, did. As her kids became involved in extracurriculars during high school, Jean and Don found themselves volunteering for various groups and committees. Jean’s volunteer positions included serving as a member of the school’s Marketing Committee, 3 Point Club, Fish Fry, Golf Outing and more. Jean continues to be a steward of helping spread the mission of West Catholic.
St. John Paul II Award – Tom Fewless ’70
A graduate of the class of 1970, Tom Fewless attributes his steadfast faith to the example set by his father, who prayed daily for others. After attending St. Anthony and West Catholic, Tom met his wife, Kathy. They married in 1975 and vowed to ensure their children received a Catholic education. Following Kathy’s passing in 2022, Tom moved back to Grand Rapids and reconnected with high school classmates, forming the “Kool Kids,” a group that meets regularly to pray and support one another. Through this group, they helped a classmate who experienced a miraculous recovery from cancer. Tom feels grateful for his West Catholic education, which strengthened his faith.
Business Excellence Award – Bill Roersma ’74 & Mark Wurn ’74
Mark Wurn and Bill Roersma’s friendship began during their freshman year at West Catholic, where they shared classes throughout high school. After graduating in 1974, they pursued separate careers but reconnected when Mark entered the building industry. Together, they started Roersma and Wurn Builders. Over 40 years, they built more than 2,000 homes, earning “Builder of the Year” in 2008. Despite facing significant challenges, they persevered through hard work and resilience. Mark and Bill credit their success to their loyal employees and the values and work ethic instilled in them during their time at West Catholic.
