Lewis James Wilczek Family
Lewis went to Central Lakes College his junior and senior year of high school, determined to own his own automotive business. In 2004, he graduated with honors as a student in the Automotive Technology program. His academic success was proven by earning Dean’s List honors every semester he was in school at Central Lakes College. After graduation, Lewis opened, owned and operated Performance Exhaust and Metal Fabrication in Little Falls, MN from 2004-2007, where he followed his passion of customizing exhaust and working on trucks and vehicles. He also worked part time at his parents’ business, Paul’s Fireplace Wood. He had a passion for working on classic trucks and, according to friends, he owned a fleet of 20, six of which he had restored to working condition. Lewis’ life was cut short in 2007. A scholarship at Central Lakes College in his name provides funds for students in the automotive technology realm. The scholarship money assists ambitious, hard-working students in reaching their educational goals and supporting their passion for automotive technology.
Impact
“Thank you so much for your contribution to the Lewis James Wilczek Memorial Scholarship Fund. I am very grateful that you’ve helped me financially while I am attending the Welding and Fabrication program at Central Lakes College. With your help, I will be able to rest easier knowing that when I’m out of school, I will not have a large debt to deal with. I will be done with my program this summer which then I will be able to start the rest of my life. Furthering my education is very important to me and I’m glad it’s important to you.”
- Spring 2016 Scholarship Recipient/Welding and Fabrication Student
“This scholarship will help me in getting what I need to be successful in my program. I am honored to be chosen as a recipient of this scholarship.”
- Spring 2014 Scholarship Recipient/Marine and Small Engine Student
“Thank you very much for awarding me the Lewis James Wilczek Scholarship. These funds will go directly towards my tuition next semester. I am pursuing an A.A.S. degree in the Welding Program. I have already finished one semester of welding and am enjoying it very much. It is more technical than I had ever imagined, but I seem to be catching on quickly. I believe that if you are interested in something, truly interested, and really want to learn it, it will come to you. But it also takes a relentless pursuit to really do it right. The determination to stay late until you have it down doesn’t always come easy, but if you have the drive, it becomes a part of your routine, another tool in your pouch… Again, thank you very much for your support. You have to know that I will be forever grateful for your help in getting my formal education.”
- Spring 2013 Scholarship Recipient/Welding A.A.S. Student
“I am very grateful that you’ve helped me financially while I am attending the Welding & Fabrication program at Central Lakes College. Furthering my education is very important to me and I’m glad it’s important to you.”
- Spring 2016 Scholarship Recipient