
West Michigan Business Leaders Honored for Exceptional Vision and Community Impact
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2025
Lakeshore Advantage Media Contact:
Grace Maiullo
616.772.5226 x203
Grace.maiullo@lakeshoreadvantage.com
West Michigan Business Leaders Honored for Exceptional Vision and Community Impact
Manufacturing Leader Jon DeWys and Attorney Jack Marquis to be Honored
HOLLAND, Mich. – Lakeshore Advantage announces two prestigious awards for business leaders in Ottawa and Allegan counties. The Visionary Award will recognize Jon DeWys, CEO and co-owner of DeWys Metal Solutions and the Standing Ovation Award will honor the late John "Jack" Richard Marquis, a distinguished attorney and founding chair of the organization. Both awards will be presented at Lakeshore Advantage’s Annual Meeting on February 20 at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville beginning at 3 pm.
Visionary Award: Jon DeWys
Jon DeWys, CEO and co-owner of DeWys Metal Solutions, is being recognized for his outstanding leadership and business acumen. His family-owned manufacturing company, located in Marne, employs over 300 team members in West Michigan. With a passion for education, Jon drove the launch of an extensive employee training program, DeWys University. The employer-led program provides hands-on training and education opportunities in the technical space to new and current team members who wish to expand their skills in manufacturing.
The Visionary Award, to be presented by Fifth Third Bank, recognizes business leaders in West Michigan’s Lakeshore region who demonstrate exceptional vision, community engagement, and far-reaching positive impact. Previous recipients include Leslie Brown of Metal Flow, Dick Haworth of Haworth, and Jim Brooks of Brooks Capital Management.
Standing Ovation Award: John “Jack” Richard Marquis
John "Jack" Richard Marquis (May 17, 1943 – February 25, 2024) was a distinguished attorney and dedicated community leader in Holland, Michigan. Throughout his legal career, Jack practiced health, business, real estate, and tax law, and served as the attorney for Holland Hospital for over 45 years. Jack was deeply committed to civic engagement and economic development, playing a crucial role as founding chair of Lakeshore Advantage.
The Standing Ovation Award celebrates Jack's selfless work and lasting legacy of service, leadership, and community dedication.
"Jon and Jack represent the very best of our region’s leadership. Their innovative thinking and commitment to community exemplify the spirit of collaboration that drives our region's economic success,” remarked Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “These awards celebrate not just individual achievements, but the collective potential of our communities. We are proud to honor their remarkable contributions."
Nearly 300 business and community leaders are expected to attended Lakeshore Advantage’s annual meeting. This event brings together senior-level business leaders, the organization's investor network, and key partner organizations to report on economic growth projects and key milestones. For information or to register to attend visit: https://lakeshoreadvantage.com/events/.
About Lakeshore Advantage
Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan's Allegan and Ottawa Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, solves economic challenges, and identifies opportunities. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the Lakeshore region. Learn more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.
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