Brian LaViolette Spirit Award

Since 2011 the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award has served as a permanent recognition for a select group of individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment, and extraordinary compassion. The recipients selflessly give of themselves to improve their community and to Brian’s Foundation.

Distinguished Recipients

Donald Driver • 2011

On November 11, 2011, during a special evening we affectionately called “11.11.11 Celebrating What’s Right With America,” the Brian LaViolette Foundation proudly presented its very first Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Donald Driver in front of a packed house at the Radisson Ballroom.

While millions of people knew Donald as a Green Bay Packers legend, we recognized him for something even greater, his extraordinary heart and his lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Donald was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award because of the example he has set both on and off the football field. Through the Donald Driver Foundation, he has dedicated himself to helping families overcome homelessness and poverty while supporting education, career development, and opportunities for young people to build brighter futures.

Beyond his foundation work, Donald has continued to inspire countless individuals throughout Northeastern Wisconsin and wherever his journey takes him. His kindness, humility, and genuine desire to help others reflect the very qualities this award was created to honor.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, generosity, encouragement, and a sincere desire to lift others up. Donald Driver exemplifies those qualities in every sense of the word.

We were honored to present our first Spirit Award to Donald in recognition of his servant leadership, his compassionate spirit, and the lasting impact he continues to make in the lives of others.

Nick Del Calzo • 2011

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was extremely proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Nick DelCalzo, an award-winning photographer whose life’s work has preserved the stories of some of America’s greatest heroes.

It seemed especially fitting that Nick received the award on Veterans Day 2011 during our special event, Celebrating What’s Right with America, held on 11.11.11.

Nick has long believed that a photograph can do more than capture a moment. It can preserve a legacy, honor a life of service, and inspire future generations to remember those who sacrificed so much for others.

Throughout his distinguished career, Nick has used his extraordinary talent behind the camera to tell stories that might otherwise have been forgotten. His acclaimed projects include the New York Times bestselling book Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty, as well as The Triumphant Spirit: Portraits & Stories of Holocaust Survivors. Through both, he gave a face and a voice to individuals whose courage, resilience, and sacrifice deserve to be remembered for generations.

While Nick’s photographs have earned national recognition, those who know him best understand that his greatest accomplishment is not found in awards or exhibitions. It is found in the respect, compassion, and dignity he brings to every person whose story he tells.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Thank you, Nick, for dedicating your life to honoring our nation’s heroes and preserving stories that might otherwise have been lost to time. Through your lens, you have reminded us that the greatest lives deserve to be remembered, and that the power of one photograph can inspire generations.

Your camera has done far more than capture history.

It has helped preserve the human spirit.

Zach Sites • 2011

On November 11, 2011, during our Celebrating What’s Right with America event, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was incredibly proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Zach Sites, a remarkable young man whose life has become a shining example of service, compassion, and giving back.

Our journey with Zach began on May 29, 2007, at Gettysburg High School, where he became the very first recipient of the Eric McColley Scholarship of Honor. The scholarship was presented by Medal of Honor recipient Wesley Fox, making it an unforgettable day for everyone in attendance.

Growing up in Gettysburg, a community forever connected to courage, sacrifice, and service, Zach embraced those same values in his own life. While still a student, he volunteered with the Cashtown Fire Company as an EMT and later entered the EMT-Paramedic program at HACC. He has since dedicated his career to serving others as a professional firefighter and paramedic, answering the call whenever his community needs him most.

Zach also became one of the very first Brian LaViolette scholarship recipients to give back financially to the Foundation. Although just beginning his own career, he understood that even a modest gift could help another young person pursue their dreams. His generosity reflected a lesson Brian’s Foundation has always hoped to inspire: those whose lives are touched by kindness often become the first to extend that kindness to someone else.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There could be no more deserving recipient than Zach McCleaf.

Thank you, Zach, for choosing a life of service and for reminding us that the true measure of a scholarship is not simply the education it provides, but the lives that are touched because someone chooses to give back.

Your courage, generosity, and commitment to others continue to honor Brian’s legacy every single day.

George Patton "Pat" Waters • 2011

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to George “Pat” Waters on November 11, 2011, a day made especially meaningful as it marked both Veterans Day and the birthday of his grandfather, General George S. Patton.

While many know Pat as the grandson of one of America’s most celebrated military leaders, those who know him personally recognize him for something even greater: a lifetime of service, generosity, humility, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Following in his family’s tradition of service, Pat proudly served as a Naval officer during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Braine. Throughout his life, he has continued to serve through leadership roles in education, healthcare, veterans’ organizations, and civic engagement, always believing that true leadership is measured by how we lift others.

Pat has also been a steadfast friend and trusted advisor to the Brian LaViolette Foundation. Through his encouragement, wisdom, and extraordinary generosity, he has challenged us to dream bigger, introduced us to remarkable people, and opened countless doors that have helped expand Brian’s legacy far beyond what we ever imagined.

One of the Foundation’s proudest moments came when Pat gave his blessing to establish the General George Patton Scholarship of Honor in Pilsen, Czech Republic. That scholarship stands as a lasting tribute not only to his grandfather’s legacy, but also to Pat’s own belief that education, service, and remembrance can inspire future generations.

Pat has also faithfully preserved the memory of his father, Lt. Col. John K. Waters, who was captured during the Battle of Kasserine Pass in Tunisia during World War II and endured more than two years as a German prisoner of war. Through his dedication to honoring both his father and grandfather, Pat reminds us that history is best preserved not only through remembrance, but through lives of continued service.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There could be no more fitting recipient than Pat Waters.

Thank you, Pat, for your friendship, your service to our country, your belief in Brian’s Foundation, and your lifelong example of servant leadership. Your encouragement has inspired us to reach farther, dream bigger, and continue changing lives through education.

Your family’s legacy is one of service. Your own legacy is one of character.

Darrel Burnett • 2014

On May 22, 2014, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was incredibly proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to our dear friend Darrel Burnett, whose friendship, leadership, and unwavering commitment have helped shape Brian’s Foundation from its very beginning.

Just days before we lost Brian, Darrel, Brian, and Doug shared what would become their final round of golf together. None of them could have imagined it would be the last time Darrel would see one of his very best friends, or the last time Brian and his father would walk a golf course together.

Darrel treasured Brian’s friendship, and theirs was a friendship built on mutual respect, laughter, and a genuine appreciation for one another that made it truly special.

When Brian died, we asked Darrel to do something no young man should ever have to do: deliver the eulogy for one of his closest friends. We never had the opportunity to read his remarks beforehand, but during that unforgettable tribute, Darrel made a promise that has echoed through every chapter of our Foundation’s history:

“Brian… in your name and memory, we all will accomplish great things.”

For more than three decades, Darrel has faithfully kept that promise.

Since the Foundation’s inception, he has served on our Board of Directors while generously sharing his time, wisdom, and extraordinary talents. He has emceed and helped choreograph every major Foundation event, bringing warmth, professionalism, and heartfelt sincerity to each gathering. Whether behind the scenes or standing before an audience, Darrel has always made everyone around him feel welcome.

His distinguished broadcasting career took him from Green Bay to Indianapolis and New York, where he earned a reputation as an outstanding sports broadcaster and communicator. Yet those who know Darrel best understand that his greatest gift has never been his voice. It has always been his heart.

Through countless hours of encouragement, thoughtful counsel, and careful editing, Darrel has helped ensure that Brian’s story has always been told with dignity, compassion, and hope.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There could be no more fitting recipient than Darrel Burnett.

Thank you, Darrel, for keeping a promise that has touched thousands of lives. Your friendship has been one of the greatest blessings our family has ever known, and your unwavering belief in Brian’s Foundation has helped transform heartbreak into hope for generations of students.

Gregg Schneider • 2014

On May 22, 2014, on the campus of St. Norbert College, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was incredibly proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to our dear friend Gregg Schneider, whose extraordinary creativity, generosity, and friendship have helped shape Brian’s story from the very beginning.

Gregg’s connection to our family began long before the Foundation was established. As neighbors, he had the opportunity to know Brian while Brian and Kim were growing up, making his involvement with the Foundation deeply personal from its earliest days.

Almost everything you have seen, held, or experienced that represents Brian’s Foundation has been thoughtfully designed by Gregg. From our very first brochure to scholarship materials, campaign pieces, publications, and countless other projects, his creative touch has helped define the Foundation’s identity with remarkable consistency, beauty, and purpose.

Working alongside his dear friend Jim Rivett for many years, Gregg shared Jim’s belief that great design is about far more than appearance. It is about telling stories that matter. Through every project, Gregg has helped capture Brian’s spirit with dignity, compassion, and hope.

Those who have had the privilege of working with Gregg know his greatest strengths extend far beyond his artistic talent. He is patient, thoughtful, and an exceptional listener. He understands when to gently guide, when to encourage, and when to remind us that the most powerful designs are often the simplest. His quiet wisdom has made every project stronger and every message more meaningful.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

This award recognizes not only Gregg’s remarkable talent, but the generous spirit with which he has shared it for more than three decades.

Connie and Bill Schuler • 2014

On May 22, 2014, on the campus of St. Norbert College, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Bill and Connie Schuler, two dear friends whose lives have been defined by service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Our friendship began many years earlier when their son, Chris, and Brian played soccer together. What started as a friendship between two families soon became a lifelong bond built on trust, kindness, and a shared belief in serving others.

For decades, Bill and Connie have been among the first to arrive and the last to leave whenever the Foundation has called. Whether preparing for a scholarship presentation, welcoming guests to a special event, or quietly taking care of countless details behind the scenes, they have always been there. Their steady presence has brought comfort to our family and confidence that whatever needed to be done would be done with excellence and genuine care.

Their leadership was especially evident during the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention in Green Bay. Bill and Connie coordinated hundreds of volunteers whose warmth, professionalism, and servant hearts helped create an unforgettable experience for America’s Medal of Honor recipients and their families. Their leadership wasn’t measured by the number of volunteers they organized, but by the spirit of hospitality they inspired in every person who served.

Bill’s lifelong commitment to service began long before the Foundation. As a combat officer during the Vietnam War, he carried the profound responsibility of leading young men into harm’s way while holding himself to a simple but extraordinary promise: to bring every one of them home safely to their families. Throughout those years, Connie faithfully served on the home front, providing the strength, love, and support that military families know so well.

Together, Bill and Connie have lived lives defined not by recognition, but by quiet acts of service. They have consistently placed the needs of others before their own, welcoming every opportunity to lend a hand, encourage a friend, or simply be present when they were needed most.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

With deep gratitude, we were proud to recognize Bill and Connie Schuler for the extraordinary example they have set through their lives of faithful service, enduring friendship, and selfless generosity.

Thank you, Bill and Connie, for standing beside our family from the very beginning, for leading with humility and grace, and for reminding us that the greatest acts of service are often the quiet ones that ask for nothing in return.

Ron and Colleen Weyers • 2014

On May 22, 2014, during a special gathering at St. Norbert College, a place deeply connected to the educational mission of the Brian LaViolette Foundation, we were honored to present one of three Brian LaViolette Spirit Awards bestowed that day to Ron and Colleen Weyers.

Throughout their lives, Ron and Colleen have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to making our community a better place. Along with their entire family, they have dedicated their time, leadership, and resources to supporting countless organizations and initiatives throughout Northeastern Wisconsin.

Their generosity and compassion have touched many areas of our community. Whether through their involvement with UW-Green Bay, the Brown County Library, St. Norbert College, organizations supporting Veterans, or the many other causes they have championed, Ron and Colleen have consistently shown that true philanthropy is about more than giving. It is about believing in people and investing in a stronger future for everyone.

Their commitment to honoring our nation’s Veterans is especially meaningful. Through their generosity, they endowed the Scholarship of Honor in memory of Navy Corpsman John Bradley, whose heroic actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima earned him the Navy Cross for his extraordinary courage and life-saving service. By preserving his legacy through education, Ron and Colleen have helped ensure that future generations will remember not only a remarkable American hero, but also the enduring values of courage, sacrifice, and service.

Their belief in education and their confidence in the mission of the Brian LaViolette Foundation have made a lasting impact. Their support has helped provide opportunities for students to continue their education and pursue their dreams, one scholarship at a time.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

We were honored to present this award to Ron and Colleen in recognition of their extraordinary commitment to education, their dedication to our community, their respect for those who have served our country, and the lasting difference they continue to make in the lives of so many.

Thank you, Ron and Colleen, for believing in Brian’s Foundation and for embodying the spirit of Brian’s life through your own.

Image courtesy of Countryside Photographers, www.countrysidephoto.com

Barb and Patrick Foye • 2015

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Barbara and Patrick Foye on May 4, 2015 in Pilsen, Czech Republic. Their friendship, generosity, and quiet leadership made the General George S. Patton Scholarship of Honor in Pilsen a lasting reality.

When we first met Barbara and Patrick in 2010, they were raising their two teenage sons while making their home in Pilsen. From the very beginning, they welcomed us not only as partners in a mission, but as friends. Their kindness, warmth, and genuine desire to help others quickly became evident, and we were blessed to have them become part of Brian’s story.

When the vision of establishing a scholarship in General Patton’s name first began to take shape, there was one essential piece still missing. We needed trusted friends who could help bridge two countries, two cultures, and two languages.

Barbara and Patrick became that bridge.

Living in Pilsen and speaking the Czech language, they generously shared their knowledge of the community, their relationships, and countless hours of behind-the-scenes work to help bring the scholarship to life. Their patience, guidance, and willingness to handle dozens of important details transformed what once seemed like an ambitious dream into a meaningful and enduring reality.

Their hospitality reflected the kindness that defines who they are. Barbara and Patrick graciously opened their home to welcome World War II veterans and their families, creating a warm and intimate setting for one of the Foundation’s most memorable Scholarship of Honor presentations. It was a beautiful expression of gratitude, respect, and friendship that no one in attendance will ever forget.

Along the way, we also had the privilege of Barbara’s father, a proud World War II veteran whose life of service reminded us why preserving the legacy of the Greatest Generation remains so important.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Barbara and Patrick have never sought recognition for the countless ways they have served. They simply saw a need, offered their hands, opened their hearts, and made the impossible seem effortless.

Thank you, Barbara and Patrick, for welcoming us as friends, for helping build a lasting connection between our countries, and for ensuring that future generations of students in Pilsen will forever know the enduring legacy of General George S. Patton and the brave men who liberated Pilsen on May 6, 1945

Bob Nueske • 2015

In May 2015, during a deeply moving ceremony in Pilsen, Czech Republic, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award in memory of our dear friend Bob Nueske. Although Bob had passed away just months earlier, his spirit and influence were present throughout the day in the city he had helped forever connect to Brian’s legacy.

For more than fifteen years, Bob was far more than a supporter of the Foundation. He became a treasured friend whose quiet encouragement, unwavering generosity, and steadfast belief inspired us to dream bigger than we ever imagined possible.

Bob believed in people. He believed in ideas that served others. And whenever the Foundation faced an opportunity to do something extraordinary, Bob was often the gentle voice encouraging us to take the next step.

One of those dreams became the General George S. Patton Scholarship of Honor in Pilsen, a program Bob enthusiastically supported from the very beginning. He also played an important role in helping sponsor the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention in Green Bay in 2007 and faithfully attended every major Foundation event during the years we were privileged to know him.

Through Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats, Bob generously helped support the Foundation’s educational materials and outreach, always choosing to invest in the mission rather than seek recognition for himself.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

It was only fitting that Bob’s family accepted the award in the very place where his vision and encouragement had helped create opportunities for future generations of students. Surrounded by his wife, Darlene, his daughter, Tanya, his sons, Nathan and Justin, and his grandson Connor, we celebrated a life defined by generosity and service.

One moment will remain in our hearts forever. Connor proudly stood beside his family wearing his grandfather’s beautifully pressed U.S. Army Specialist 5 medic uniform, a moving tribute to a man whose life reflected quiet service, deep patriotism, and unwavering love for others.

Today, Bob’s legacy continues through his remarkable family, who still support Brian’s Foundation with the same generosity, humility, and kindness that Bob lived every day. We believe there could be no greater tribute to his life.

Bob often said, “If the love of what you’re doing exceeds the labor of doing it… success is inevitable.”

Thank you, Bob, for believing in Brian’s Foundation, for encouraging us to reach beyond what we thought possible, and for showing us that the greatest leaders are often the quietest ones.

Your encouragement became our courage, and your legacy continues in every life that Brian’s Foundation touches.

Lee and Kathy Anderson • 2016

On February 14, 2016, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Lee and Kathy Anderson, recognizing their extraordinary commitment to serving others, honoring our nation’s veterans, and preserving the stories that define our shared history.

Throughout their lives, Lee and Kathy have quietly demonstrated that gratitude is best expressed through action. Their generosity, volunteerism, and unwavering support of educational and community initiatives have touched countless lives throughout Northeastern Wisconsin.

Their dedication to education is reflected in the endowed scholarship they established to support Engineering Technology students at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, helping future generations pursue their dreams through learning and opportunity. They are also familiar faces throughout the community, whether cheering on the Phoenix at UW–Green Bay basketball games or volunteering their time at the NEW Zoo.

Perhaps nowhere is their servant’s heart more evident than in their deep commitment to America’s veterans. They have devoted themselves to ensuring that the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation are never forgotten, supporting those who answered our nation’s call with courage and humility.

Their generosity made possible the Scholarship of Honor Story film, preserving the remarkable story of the Scholarship of Honor program and the enduring friendship between the American liberators of Pilsen and the Czech people. Through that film, future generations will continue to learn about the values of freedom, service, sacrifice, and gratitude.

Among the many lives they have touched was that of World War II veteran Rueben Schaetzel, whom they sponsored on two unforgettable journeys back to Pilsen, Czech Republic. Walking once again on the ground he helped liberate in May 1945 became one of the most meaningful experiences of his life. Rueben often said it was the greatest honor he had ever received, a testament to the kindness and thoughtfulness that define Lee and Kathy’s lives.

Over the years, Lee and Kathy have also remained faithful financial supporters of the Brian LaViolette Foundation, believing deeply in its mission and helping ensure that Brian’s legacy continues to create opportunities for future generations of students.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Lee and Kathy Anderson exemplify those values through lives devoted to education, community service, historical remembrance, and heartfelt generosity.

Thank you, Lee and Kathy, for reminding us that honoring those who served is not simply about remembering the past. It is about carrying their legacy forward through acts of kindness, service, and gratitude that inspire generations yet to come.

Because of your generosity, heroes are remembered, students are encouraged, history is preserved, and Brian’s spirit continues to change lives.

Wm. "Red" Lewis • 2016

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to our dear friend Wm. “Red” Lewis on February 14, 2016, recognizing a lifetime devoted to hard work, generosity, and helping others discover their potential.

Although Red was widely respected as the founder of PDQ Car Wash, PDQ Manufacturing, and The Automobile Gallery, those who knew him best understood that his greatest success was never measured by the businesses he built. It was measured by the people whose lives he helped shape.

Red believed that opportunity changes lives. Long before it became common practice, he established scholarship programs for his employees because he believed education opened doors to a brighter future. He also took great pride in knowing that more than 20,000 young people received their very first job through PDQ. To Red, those first paychecks represented far more than employment. They marked the beginning of confidence, responsibility, and a lifelong work ethic.

His generosity extended throughout Northeastern Wisconsin. Whether supporting Notre Dame Academy, the Salvation Army’s Coats for Kids campaign, or countless community initiatives, Red quietly invested in organizations that strengthened families and created opportunities for others.

Perhaps no project reflected his vision more than The Automobile Gallery, where his passion for the automobile became an opportunity to educate, inspire, and bring people together. He believed that history, craftsmanship, and innovation should be shared with future generations, creating experiences that would spark curiosity and appreciation for years to come.

Red’s remarkable commitment to serving others was recognized throughout the community, including receiving the Green Bay Rotary Club’s prestigious Free Enterprise Award in 2017. Yet despite those honors, he remained the same humble, approachable man whose greatest satisfaction came from seeing others succeed.

Although Red passed away in January 2021, his legacy continues through the work of his family, who remain deeply committed to the values he lived every day and continue his tradition of investing in education, opportunity, and our community.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Red Lewis exemplified those values through a lifetime of servant leadership, quiet philanthropy, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every young person.

Thank you, Red, for showing us that one opportunity can change a life, one act of kindness can strengthen a community, and one generous heart can inspire generations.

Your legacy is found not only in the remarkable organizations you created, but in the thousands of lives you helped set on a path toward a brighter future.

Martin Baxa • 2016

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Martin Baxa on May 8, 2016, during the Fifth Annual Scholarship of Honor Reception held at the home of Barbara and Patrick Foye in Pilsen, Czech Republic.

Martin has long embodied the qualities of exceptional leadership, humility, and service. As Mayor of Pilsen, he became a passionate advocate for preserving the city’s unique bond with the American soldiers who liberated Pilsen on May 6, 1945. Through his leadership, that history has continued to be remembered, celebrated, and shared with future generations.

His commitment to education made him a natural friend of Brian’s Foundation. A teacher of history and geography before entering public service, Martin has always believed that understanding the past helps shape a better future. Those same values made him instrumental in helping establish the General George S. Patton Scholarship of Honor, creating educational opportunities for students while preserving the legacy of the men and women whose courage brought freedom to the Czech people.

Martin’s friendship with the Foundation reached across the Atlantic. In 2013, he traveled to Green Bay for the premiere of Return to Pilsen, the documentary that shared the remarkable story of the Scholarship of Honor and the enduring friendship between the people of Pilsen and the American veterans who liberated their city. His heartfelt remarks at the Meyer Theatre reflected his deep appreciation for those veterans and for the lasting bond between our two nations.

Throughout his years of public service, Martin has been supported by his wife, Simona, an educator who shares his commitment to learning, community, and helping others. Together, they have demonstrated that leadership begins with service and is strengthened by family, partnership, and shared values.

Although Martin later accepted the responsibility of serving as the Czech Republic’s Minister of Culture, he has never forgotten his roots in Pilsen or his commitment to the Scholarship of Honor. His continued encouragement and friendship have remained a source of inspiration to Brian’s Foundation and to everyone dedicated to preserving this extraordinary legacy.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Martin Baxa exemplifies those values through his lifelong dedication to education, public service, historical remembrance, and international friendship.

Thank you, Martin, for believing that history should never simply be remembered—it should inspire future generations to live lives of service, gratitude, and hope.

Because of your leadership, the legacy of freedom continues to educate, unite, and inspire on both sides of the Atlantic.

Sue LeTourneau • 2017

 The Brian LaViolette Foundation was proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award on August 8, 2017, to Sue LeTourneau, a devoted, sister, aunt, and one of the Foundation’s earliest champions.  (We get into the mother side below.)

Sue’s belief in the Foundation has never been measured by a single moment, but by a lifetime of giving. Through her extraordinary generosity, quiet encouragement, and unwavering confidence in our mission, she has helped build a Foundation that will continue changing lives for generations to come.

Sue has always believed in the power of education to change lives. Her passion for helping young people inspired her to establish scholarship opportunities at Oconto and Suring High Schools by creating the Journey Is the Reward and Above and Beyond scholarships through Brian’s Foundation. Through those scholarships, she has helped open doors of opportunity for 56 students while at the same time carrying Brian’s legacy forward through the scholarship that bears his personal name.

Today, that same spirit of service continues through her daughter, Kristin Kreuser, whose lifelong career as an educator and passion for helping others led her to become the Executive Director of the Brian LaViolette Foundation. Together, they represent two generations of one family committed to changing lives through education.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There could be no more fitting recipient than Sue.

Thank you, Sue, for believing in Brian, believing in our family, and believing that education changes lives. Your love, generosity, and unwavering faith have helped ensure that Brian’s story will continue to inspire future generations.

Bob Burns • 2017

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Bob Burns on August 8, 2017, recognizing a dear friend, trusted advisor, and one of the Foundation’s most dedicated leaders since its very beginning.

Bob and the LaViolette family became neighbors in 1985, beginning a friendship that would grow into a bond lasting more than four decades. When Brian’s Foundation was established, Bob’s legal expertise, steady guidance, and caring heart made him a natural choice to become one of the Foundation’s first Board of Directors.

He has been there ever since.

Now, 34 years later, Bob continues to guide Brian’s Foundation with wisdom, patience, a calming presence, and his wonderful sense of humor. Through seasons of growth, change, and challenge, Bob has remained a trusted voice who always helps us stay focused on our mission and Brian’s legacy.

Bob and his wife, Sue, experienced Brian’s loss alongside our family. As neighbors, they watched Brian grow up, and their three sons, Michael, Patrick, and Thomas, shared a childhood connection and friendship with Brian that made the loss especially personal.

From the very beginning, Bob understood that Brian’s Foundation was about more than scholarships. It was about people, relationships, and creating opportunities for others.

Throughout his life, Bob has generously shared his time, talents, and leadership with many organizations throughout Northeastern Wisconsin. His commitment to service includes serving as past Board Chair of Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin, past Board Member of Freedom House Ministries, and past President of the Green Bay Country Club.

A graduate of St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin, and Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon, Bob has built a career and a life centered on serving others. Today, he continues that commitment as Secretary of the Brian LaViolette Foundation.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Bob Burns represents those values in every way.

Thank you, Bob, for standing beside our family, for sharing your wisdom and friendship, and for helping protect and strengthen Brian’s legacy for future generations.

For more than three decades, you have been more than an advisor to Brian’s Foundation. You have been family.

Victoria Parmentier • 2017

 The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Vicki Parmentier, a dear friend of the LaViolette family and one of Brian’s Foundation’s most passionate ambassadors for more than 25 years.

It seemed especially fitting that we presented this award to Vicki at Lambeau Field on August 8, 2017. Beyond being a place that represents the heart and pride of our community, Lambeau Field holds special meaning for Vicki, who has always shared a deep passion and love for the Green Bay Packers.

Vicki has always been someone who makes things happen. When there is a need, she is among the first to step forward, offering her time, talents, wisdom, and unwavering enthusiasm to help make a difference.

Her friendship with the LaViolette family began long before Brian’s Foundation was established, dating back to our days in Oconto. That lifelong connection has grown into a remarkable partnership built on friendship, trust, and a shared belief in the importance of helping others.

Since joining the Foundation’s Advisory Board in 2003, Vicki has been a constant source of encouragement and support. She has served on countless event committees, helped create meaningful opportunities, and has always been willing to do whatever was needed to advance Brian’s mission.

Vicki’s generosity has also created lasting educational opportunities through scholarships established in honor of her own family. Her belief in the power of education reflects the very heart of Brian’s Foundation: helping students pursue their dreams while inspiring others to give back.

Perhaps one of Vicki’s greatest gifts is the way she shares Brian’s story wherever life takes her. Through her travels and her many connections around the world, she has become a remarkable ambassador for the Foundation, introducing others to Brian’s legacy and the impact of changing lives through education.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Vicki Parmentier has lived those values every step of the way.

Thank you, Vicki, for your friendship, your passion, and your extraordinary commitment to keeping Brian’s spirit alive. Your willingness to serve, inspire, and share his story has helped our Foundation reach places we never imagined possible.

Some people support a mission.   Others carry it forward. Vicki has done both.

Bill Jartz • 2017

On August 8, 2017, during the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Brian LaViolette Foundation at historic Lambeau Field, we were honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Bill Jartz.

It was a fitting setting to recognize someone who has spent decades using his voice to bring people together, celebrate the work of others, and shine a light on countless causes throughout our community.

Many know Bill as the trusted voice of Green Bay, a respected news anchor, and, years later, the official play-by-play voice of the Green Bay Packers. But to hundreds of nonprofit organizations and community groups, Bill is something even more meaningful: he is the voice that helps their missions be heard.

For decades, Bill has generously donated his time and talent to countless charities, events, and organizations throughout Northeastern Wisconsin. As an emcee, he has helped bring energy, passion, and professionalism to community events across the region. As an auctioneer, he has elevated that gift even further, helping organizations raise millions of dollars in support of important causes and the people they serve.

Those who have seen Bill in action understand the passion and enthusiasm he brings to every event. Even with the demands of his career as a news anchor, he continues to make time to serve others. In 2016 alone, Bill made 87 community appearances representing WBAY, and the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to be one of those organizations that experienced firsthand his remarkable talent, generosity, and commitment to making a difference.

There is truly no way to measure the number of lives Bill has touched or the number of organizations he has helped champion throughout the years. His voice has become a gift to our community, but his greatest impact comes from how he has used that voice to inspire generosity, encourage compassion, and help others succeed.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

We were deeply honored to present this award to Bill Jartz in recognition of his extraordinary service, his passion for helping others, and the countless lives he has impacted through the powerful gift of his voice.

Thank you, Bill, for being a voice for so many, for turning that voice into action, and for embodying the spirit of Brian’s life through your own.

Jim Rivett • 2019

A Guardian of Good

The Brian LaViolette Foundation had the privilege of honoring the memory of our dear friend Jim Rivett with the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award on August 17, 2019.

From the very beginning of Brian’s story, Jim was there, along with the creative team at the Goltz Agency, who designed the memorial program that was placed into the hands of every person who attended Brian’s funeral. It was the first of countless acts of kindness, creativity, and generosity that Jim would extend to our family and Foundation over the next three decades.

Jim believed great design was about more than creating something beautiful. It was about telling stories that mattered and helping others share their vision with the world.

Throughout his remarkable career, Jim helped hundreds of nonprofit organizations communicate their missions with creativity, compassion, and purpose. When he founded KHROME, he built an agency committed to using creativity to strengthen communities by helping nonprofit organizations tell their stories.

Brian’s Foundation was blessed to be one of those stories.

For nearly three decades, Jim and his team helped share Brian’s story with grace, dignity, and extraordinary care. Their work has inspired countless people and helped ensure that Brian’s legacy will continue for generations to come.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Although Jim passed away before we were able to present the award to him personally, we were honored to present the Spirit Award in his memory to his beloved husband, Pete, surrounded by Jim’s family, friends, and the team he inspired every day.

Jim was often described as a “guardian of good,” and to those of us who knew him, no description could have been more fitting. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the community he strengthened, and the goodness he inspired in all of us.

Mike Calawerts • 2022

On August 17, 2022, at The Automobile Gallery, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Mike Calawerts, whose optimism, generosity, and unwavering belief in our mission have helped expand Brian’s Foundation in extraordinary ways.

Mike has a remarkable ability to bring people together. His enthusiasm is contagious, his friendships are genuine, and his belief that one person can make a difference has opened doors that once seemed impossible.

Working alongside his wife, Rocky, Mike became an integral part of the Foundation’s Endowment Campaign and the growth of our Legacy Watch Program. Through his encouragement and countless behind-the-scenes efforts, he helped secure many significant watch donations, most notably the extraordinary gift of a watch from His Holiness Pope Francis. That historic act of generosity became a defining moment for the Legacy Watch Program, inspiring collectors and donors around the world to contribute watches that continue changing lives through education.

For Mike and Rocky, however, their connection to Brian’s Foundation has always been deeply personal.

As they so beautifully shared:

“Thirty-two years ago, we were blessed by the arrival of our adopted son, Lucas. It was August 8, 1992, a joyous day parents never forget. Sadly, and ironically, it was the same day that Renee and Doug learned that their son, Brian, was tragically lost in a drowning accident. As we have watched our son grow, we have watched the Brian LaViolette Foundation come to life and grow as well.

Since then we have supported their efforts, as the LaViolettes have channeled their unimaginable pain into creating something positive and good in memory of Brian.”

Those heartfelt words reflect the compassion, friendship, and hope that Mike and Rocky have shared with our family for so many years. Their support has never been measured simply by the opportunities they created or the gifts they helped inspire, but by their steadfast belief that good can emerge even from life’s greatest heartbreaks.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Mike Calawerts exemplifies those values through his optimism, his leadership, and his willingness to open doors for others. Rocky’s quiet encouragement and partnership have been an equally important part of that journey, reminding us that the greatest accomplishments are often shared.

Thank you, Mike and Rocky, for believing in Brian’s Foundation and for helping transform one extraordinary act of kindness into a movement that continues to change lives around the world.

Your friendship has reminded us that hope has a remarkable way of multiplying when it is shared.

Barb Gilling • 2022

On August 8, 2022, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was incredibly proud to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Barb Gilling, whose extraordinary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment have helped strengthen Brian’s Foundation for many years.

As Foundation Treasurer, Barb’s exceptional attention to detail and financial expertise have provided the strong foundation that allows our organization to remain focused on its mission of changing lives through education. Her careful stewardship and thoughtful guidance have helped ensure that every scholarship awarded reflects the trust placed in us by our donors and supporters.

A Milwaukee native, Barb earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and became a Certified Public Accountant before enjoying a distinguished career in public accounting. She later served for more than three decades as Controller for Red Lewis and the PDQ organization, retiring in 2024 after a career defined by professionalism, excellence, and integrity.

Barb’s commitment to serving others extends well beyond her professional life. She is a past board member of the Green Bay YMCA, a past Board Chair of Bellin Psychiatric Hospital, and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Bellin Health Systems and The Automobile Gallery. In every role, she has generously shared her time, wisdom, and leadership to strengthen organizations that enrich our community.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There could be no more deserving recipient than Barb Gilling.

Kim LaViolette Mosteller • 2022

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was deeply honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Kimberly LaViolette on August 17, 2022, an award created to recognize individuals who embody the spirit of her brother, Brian.

For Kim, this honor represents something far greater than an award. It represents a lifetime of love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to keeping Brian’s memory alive through helping others.

After 14 years of volunteering her time and sharing her passion for Brian’s Foundation, Kim became Executive Director in May 2006. Her deep love for her brother, her belief in the Foundation’s mission, and her experience as Community Director with the March of Dimes Foundation in Western North Carolina made her uniquely qualified to help guide the organization into its next chapter.

Kim became the Foundation’s first full-time employee and devoted herself to building the structure, programs, and relationships that have allowed Brian’s legacy to continue growing for generations.

For more than two decades, Kim faithfully led Brian’s Foundation with extraordinary attention to detail, organizational excellence, compassion, and a kindness that touched everyone she encountered. She balanced the many responsibilities of leading a growing nonprofit while also embracing the joys and challenges of being a new mother, a devoted wife, and a loving daughter to Renee and Doug.

Her greatest strength has always been her heart.

Kim understood that Brian’s Foundation was never just about scholarships. It was about people. It was about listening to students’ dreams, caring about their journeys, and making sure Brian’s life continued to create opportunities for others.

Kim’s impact extended far beyond the Foundation. Living in Asheville, North Carolina since 2004, she has remained deeply connected to her community through service with organizations including the Asheville Grown Business Alliance, the Latino Advocacy Coalition, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has always believed that making a difference begins with showing up for others.

Today, Kim continues to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, time with family and friends, and exploring the world with her husband, Isaiah, and their son, Walker.

The Brian LaViolette Spirit Award recognizes individuals who embody the values Brian lived every day: kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

There may be no one who better represents the spirit of Brian’s life than his sister, Kimberly.

Thank you, Kim, for giving so much of yourself to protect your brother’s story, for helping thousands of students discover hope through education, and for showing all of us that love can transform loss into a legacy that changes lives.

Brian’s journey continues because of your love.

And his spirit lives on through you.

Marc and Tina Frankel • 2025

On July 22, 2025, during the WindUp Watch Fair in Chicago, the Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to Marc and Tina Frankel.

It was a fitting setting to recognize two people whose passion for watches and, even more importantly, passion for helping others have brought together a remarkable community united by a shared purpose.

Marc and Tina Frankel, along with the entire Long Island Watch team, embody the very spirit this award was created to honor. Through their leadership, generosity, and belief in Brian’s Foundation and its mission, they inspired collectors and watch enthusiasts around the world to come together in support of something much greater than a timepiece.

With the creation and release of the Islander Journey Watch, Marc and Tina united a passionate watch community around a meaningful purpose: honoring Brian’s legacy while reminding us all of the importance of time, generosity, and the difference we can make in the lives of others.

Their commitment went far beyond the design and release of the watch itself. Through their vision, dedication, and incredible generosity, they created a lasting tribute that brought people together and helped advance Brian’s mission of supporting students through education.


We are deeply grateful to Marc, Tina, and the entire Long Island Watch team for believing in Brian’s Foundation, embracing his story, and showing how a shared passion can become a powerful force for good.

Eric Wind • 2026

On June 7, 2026, The Brian LaViolette Foundation was honored to present the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award to our dear friend Eric Wind during a special gathering in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, surrounded by his entire family, including his parents, Ann and Dr. Mike Wind, his wife, Christine, their son, Charlie, and daughters, Adelina and Gemma.

Eric has played a pivotal role in establishing the Foundation’s presence within the international watch community. Among his many contributions, he coordinated and helped bring to life our first two landmark charity watch auctions, the inaugural auction at Rago/Wright in Chicago in 2022 and our second auction at Christie’s in New York in 2024. Those historic events, along with his generosity, leadership, and unwavering friendship, inspired collectors, brands, and watch enthusiasts around the world to embrace our mission of changing lives through education.

Over the years, Eric’s leadership in organizing and spearheading dozens of significant watch donations, while also making many incredibly generous contributions of his own, has helped transform the Foundation’s Legacy Watch Program into a remarkable success.

Eric would be the first to acknowledge that none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Christine, and the extraordinary efforts of the entire Wind Vintage team. We are deeply grateful to all of them for the lasting difference they have made in the lives of our scholarship recipients.