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John Schelling
AKA: The Big Kahuna
Anyone who ever met or knew John Schelling, a six-foot, 10-inch high local leader, hero, remarkable storyteller and golfer extraordinaire, was inspired and encouraged to be the best they could be in every aspect of their lives. John gave effortlessly to causes, big and small, and he instilled this mantra in others.
Although John gave thousands of volunteer hours to help local and state philanthropic projects, two events truly touched John’s heart in indescribable ways. They were among his “favorites” that Grand Rapids hosted every year: the Special Olympics Michigan state basketball tournament and the Champions Tour or SENIOR PGA Tour event. When most people hear “March Madness” they think of NCAA basketball. Although John followed the NCAA event every year and was a spectator at most first and second rounds of NCAA basketball play, he always found time to volunteer for the Special Olympics Michigan State Basketball tournament. Commonly known for his outstanding emceeing ability of the tournament’s opening and closing ceremonies, John was known to the thousands of athletes as the one who gave the tallest “high fives,” the biggest hugs and the most encouragement.
The Special Olympics Michigan project was “special” to John and remains so for the Grand Rapids Jaycees. John’s spirit epitomized his innate gift of giving back to others. It was his charismatic leadership that energetically launched others into action.
John was among the “founders” of an event in 1978 that the Grand Rapids Jaycees organized. It was a one-day golf outing headlined by Arnold Palmer and President Ford. With John’s hard work, determination and unwavering commitment to his community, he, and thousands of others over the next 25 years, grew this event from a one-day golf outing to a major stop on the Champions Tour. The event truly was “fore” charity and ultimately was a multimillion dollar fundraiser for West Michigan charities.
Although the event no longer exists, John’s original vision does: To host an event rooted in the tradition of golf, fun and friendship, and when the last putt has been sunk, to have made a positive impact on the community. Thus, the creation of the Big John Kahuna Classic!
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