Thank You
The Donors Who Rebuilt the Fleet
The Wawasee Fireworks Barge Replacement Campaign raised $482,576 against a $350,000 goal. Twelve new barges, built locally by Swiss Perfection of Syracuse and paid in full, now join six from the existing fleet. These are the neighbors who made it possible.
The Barge Story
Lake Wawasee’s aging fireworks barges were failing: weld cracks, structural decay, and coupling problems. Rather than let the tradition shrink, the WPOA launched a capital campaign to replace the fleet. The community answered. Twelve new barges were fabricated in Syracuse by Swiss Perfection, prototypes were tested in November 2025, and the first 12-inch shell launched over the lake on Veterans Day 2025. The new fleet is paid in full and ready for July 4, 2026.
WPOA Fireworks Barge Replacement Committee
Chris CampbellChair · Pier 340-E
Mark EatonPier 123
Scott J. LaughnerPier 748
William RuddellPier 569
Fireworks Founders Matching Fund
The Fireworks Founders committed to match community donations dollar-for-dollar, effectively doubling each gift toward the new barges.
$261,000Match commitment · snapshot 12/4/25
$25,000+ Donors - Founders Fleet Captain
Jim and Pat Marcuccilli, Piers 250+251
“Every Fourth of July, our family and friends gather on the lake for hot dogs and laughter and, when Kate Smith takes the mic, the pure magic of her voice. It’s one of our dearest traditions, and we’re proud to support replacing the barges that make the fireworks possible.”
Randy and Deborah Tobias, Pier 811
“Lake Wawasee’s fireworks embody the spirit of our community and country. We are grateful for the chance to support new barges that will safeguard this beloved tradition now and for generations to come.”
Doug and Carolyn Anderson - Wawasee Boat Co., 469A, WBC is 754
“Lake Wawasee’s Fourth of July is more than fireworks; it is a reunion of our community, and a reminder of why Wawasee is home. That is why we are proud to support keeping this tradition alive.”
Main Channel Marina, Pier 689-A024
Joan Cleveland, in memory of John W Cleveland, Pier 446
“Lake Wawasee has been at the heart of our family’s summers since the 1970s. Now, sharing that same magic with my grandchildren each Fourth of July means the world to me. I’m proud to support the new barges so they can celebrate here for decades to come.”
Gene and Patsy McNichols & Family, Pier 690
“Lake Wawasee has given our family so many memories. Donating McNICHOLS Fiberglass Grating is our way of giving back so the fireworks remain safe, strong, and spectacular for everyone in 2026 and beyond.”
Joel & Joyce Helmuth, Pier 534
$10,000 - $24,999 Donors - Grand Finale Partner
Roger and Char Pecina, Piers 621+622
“There’s nothing like fireworks over Wawasee: moments that bring neighbors together in joy and pride. We’re honored to help replace the barges so those memories continue for years to come.”
Jane DeHaven - DeHaven Chevrolet, Pier 034
“My fondest memories are of Fourth of July on Lake Wawasee with family and friends, going back to when I was a child. It’s my favorite holiday—it celebrates country, family, friends, and The Lake.”
Tom and Patty Kelley, Piers 800+801
Keith Busse, Pier 503
Keith Busse Automotive & Classic Art Foundation, Pier 503
Harry & Jane Finch / Ryan, Sarah & Megan McBee, Pier 304
"Our family has supported the Wawasee Fireworks for years because it is a tradition that brings our genetic family and our lake family and friends together year after year. It is the highlight of a weekend that celebrates our faith, family, and COUNTRY. And we don't even have to buy gifts!! Safety on the water is a key lesson for our children. Contributing to safety on the barges is a testament to that value! BE SAFE!!"
Kevin & Kellie Walbridge, Pier 744
“Every Sunday we take our Gar Wood out for the Thunder Run and are reminded how special it is to share Wawasee traditions with family, friends, and neighbors. Supporting the fireworks is our way of giving back, helping ensure future generations can experience the same joy and pride on this lake that we’ve been lucky to enjoy.”
Chris and Tammy Storie, Pier 641
Doug and Chris McKibben - Glenbrook Automotive Group, Pier 325-010
“For nearly 30 years Chris and I have enjoyed the summers at Wawasee with our 4 children 12 grandchildren and now 5 great grandchildren, one of the highlights every year is the huge fireworks display that we all look forward to. We are very hopeful that it will continue for generations to come."
Brian T & Jamie Hull, Pier 474+475
Community Donors
The generous neighbors of Lake Wawasee who contributed to the WPOA capital campaign to replace the failing fireworks barges.
$221,069Community raised · snapshot 12/4/25
$5,000 - $9,999
- Tom & Joan Marcuccilli
- Jon & Kristine Leetz
- Joe and Maria Hinrichs
- John & Kathy Ackerman
- Anonymous Donor
- Susie Salin McClain & Garth McClain
- The Ruddell Family - Priscilla, Jim, Bill & Andy Ruddell
- Runaway Bay HOA
- David Arbogast
- Beesley Family
- The Wm Craig & Teneen L Dobbs Charitable Foundation
- Charles N. Hetrick
$1,000 - $4,999
- Steve & Brenda Walker
- Stephen Snyder
- E.H. McNichols (Eugene)
- Carolyn M. Schaefer
- Donn Baird
- Julie Downham
- Marylou Hipskind
- Amy & Marshall Reavis
- Griffith's Wawasee Marina
- Dan Mikolajczak & Lisa Griffith
- Sally Hubbard
- Monica & Larry Weigand
- James B. Woodruff
- Ronald Mason
- Stuart Kleopfer
- Dan Michael
- Janet Kendall
- Cynthia Herald
- Phil & Sarah Smith
- Jay Jorgensen
- Brian C Pahud
- Kristen Kenney
- Kay Young
- Dianne Dykstra
- Dennis Gernhardt
- Luretta Deschner
- Douglas Rose
- Sally Reel
- Sean 0'Connor
- Anton George
- Elaine Johnston
- Craig Alderson
- Joe Merryman
- Lauren Edmundson
- Katherine Henke
- Richard Pfleger
- Tom Schnellenberger
- Stephen Fidler
- Shelly Schenkel
- Amy Thwaits
- John Robertson
- Nancy Zimmerman
- J Scott Laughner
- Larry & Pam Palmer
- Allen Glassburn
- James & Susan Donahoe
- Dave Irmscher
- Robert & Susan Rush
- Michael Gadus
- Steve & Leslie Inskeep
- Tom Inskeep
- Mark Phillips
- Melinda Mooradian
- Salin Family
- Jim Tranter
- Ray O Deahl
- Pier 343 Home Owners Associaton Inc.
- F.R. & Michele French
- Robert Loose Family
- Irwin F Deister Jr.
- Brad & Cindy Quinn
- Robert & Linda Marshall
- Bob Marshall
$500 - $999
- Rick Hovde
- Dave Lindsey
- Rick & Julie Davis
- Karen Turner
- Dana Beesley
- Carole Kelly Havens
- John Bearss
- Nancy Hoard
- Jeffrey T Ramsey
- Tonda Longenecker
- Kristin Eby
- Richard LaVanture
- Jeremy Davidson
- Julie Mark
- Michael Kitch
- Douglas Rassi
- Tanya Leetz
- Laura & Matt Albrecht
- James Kroemer
- Renee Schwartz
- Edgar Purvis Jr.
- John & Carol Kellogg
- Marianne Horn
- Carolyn L & George R McClure
- Casimir & Stephanie Szynal
- Bernard Asdell
- William & Terry Pipp & Family
- Norman Leader
- John & Diane Miller
- Stephen & Maria Phillipp
- William & Barbara Couch
- Leon Theis
- Marianne Salaymeh
- Kyle Trick
- James & Celia Jackson
- Walter & Ann Palmer
- Janet Hagedorn
- Scott Hirschman
- John & Debbie Brehm
- David Dickey
- Sam Schwartz
- John & Barbara Stringer
- Tim Graber
- Russ & Pat Mikel
- Stuart & Karen Buck
- Joe & Kathy Dugdale
- Brian & Denise Ploss
- Mr. & Mrs. George E Freese
- John & Kris Schlagenhauf
- William G Batt
- Walt & Barb Maxson
- Gregg Hutchinson
- James McCullough
- Robert & Nicole Dellen
- Todd Lassus
- Diane Hopen
- Frank & Becky Levinson
- Chet & Tonda Longenecker
- Martha Moore
- Jeff & Clare Quinn
- Brenda Moser
- Jay Jackson
$250 - $499
- Morrie & Jan Mauer
- Vaughan & Karen McCullough Hankins
- Roger West
- Briget Chamness
- Jane Wildman
- Murray Bartholome
- John Schlagenhauf
- Alan Tehan
- Doug & Helen Yoder
- Ken & Gloria Schuman
- Nancy Harter
- Tony & Susan Bonanno
- Bill & Linda Cripe
- Ray Gerling
- Craig & Lee Doyle
- Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters
- Henry Martin
- Jennifer Martin
- Michael Hope
- Jack Hollingsworth
- Sherry Swank
- Joel Wuebker
- Kevin Elpers
- Chris Gortney
- Patrick McGinn
- Chandra Seybert
- Daniel Morris
- David A. Lindsey
- Kim Colby
- John Feighner
- Kathy Callen
- Michael Bahler
- Jim Rapp
- Kimberly Grieshop
- Jacob Odom
- Casey Stump
- Patricia Wardlow
- LIndsay Cutter
- James Faley
- Marilyn Davis
- David Queisser
- RM Leppert
- William Leppert
- Tim Button
- Natalie Bojrab
- David Taylor
- Jan & Arnie Macy
- Rob Troxel
- Timothy Swartz
- Christopher Campbell
- Oakwood Resort
- Anthony Snider
- Jeffrey L Wilson
- Richard L Pletcher
- Sheila McNelis
- Malinda Gentry
- Hope Huber
- Michael Bosway
- Barry & Elizabet Hudson
- Michael Violi
- Kent & Debra Thomas
- Robert & Kelly Kohlmeyer
- Lori Chokenea
- Bob Modiset
- Sally Mahnken
- Greg & Debby Doyle
- Glen Phillips & Mary Pontius
- David A Eckrich
- Steve & Jill Howard
- Brian Rhoades
- Jack & Sonya Wells
- Kristi Harkenrider
- Mike & Carla McCracken
- Jennifer Abrell & Gordon Hughes
$100 - $249
- Carole Lichtenauer
- Kurt Heinz
- Martha Wilson
- David Slyby
- Mark Eaton
- Cortney Day
- Caryn Englander
- Kevin Kirkpatrick
- Ryan Wardlow
- Dan Donohue
- John Rufatto
- Kathleen Jones
- Judy Schmahl
- Scott Rogers
- Ron Baumgartner
- Kip & Pam Schumm
- Tom & Nancy Madru
- Grant Gift- No name
- Ann & Art Garceau + Aimee (Garceau) & Shawn Bolinger
- Robert & Margo Shugart
- Herman & Connie Houin
- David Clark
- Rich Carr
- Scott & Marli Williams
- Joseph F. Howell & Julie G. Howell
- Charles R Davis
- Yager
- William & Jean Freudenthal
- Charles & Karen Meyer
- Steve & Amy Just
- Timothy S. Needler
- Tim & Beth Bloom
- John & Phyllis Cardis
- Tamara Haubry
- Mike & Melissa Mates
- Susan Grieshop
- Larry & Cathy Teghtmeyer
- Ralph Smith
- Robert & Kay Magnetti
- Richard & Ellen Stahly
- Eckhoff / Kavanaugh
- J E Cleveland
- Brook Sefton & John Sefton
- Shirley Kline
- Patrick Family
- Thomas Tuttle II
- Steve Farley
- Kristal Klehfoth
- Lu Pennal
- Dianne Kaiser
- Andrea Kramer
- Douglas Fields
- Martha Simpson
- Betsy McSoley
- Debbie Collins
- Lori Eltzroth
- Michael Nichols
- Bruce Kurtz
- Ann Porter
- Jerry Oswald
- Shelley Lukemeyer
- Anthony Yager
- Patricia Rice
- Rosita Kilty
- Kim Arbogast
- Connie Blackwell
- Steve Hurst
- Sue Hirschman
- Brad Webb
- Craig Taylor
- Robert Gorgol Sr
- Clare Baumgardt
- Constance Anthony
- Gretchen Moon
- Laura Donahue
- Mary Ann Prah
- Geoffry Williams
- Kathy Graham
- Shelia Flatt
- Emily Bowsher
- Robert Powell
- Janie Butler
- Panos Bourounis
- James Thieman
- Gregory Schenkel
- Denise Phillips
- Joseph Kirsits
- Donna Boehm
- Charles Bartholome
- Jeff Steele
- MaryBeth Mitchel
- Debra Richardson
- Steve Helton
- Doreen Byrd
- Vicki Bernheisel
- Bob & Tammy Herdrich
- Mark Benson
- Angela M Marshall
- Jeff Leetz
- Carol White
- R James Alerding
- John Fiatt
- Richard Thrapp
- Lora Smith
- Dina Levenda
- Barbara A McAfee
- Molly Fisher
- Joe & Karen Glaser
- Joseph Johnson
- Janeen Malfait
- Kenneth File
- James Keller
- David Brandes
- Diane Koomler
- John L Stumpf
- Steve McLear
- Leslie Cook
- Marna Brisley
- Phyllis Davis
- Carrie Barnes
- Barbara Clark
- Alex Chael
- Jeffrey Soldner
- Cynthia Rasp
- Catherine Hurst
- Robert Steury
- Nikki Gillan
- Ben Wilkinson
- Michelle Copeland
- Gale Jacobs
- Karla Hayden
- Sue Gitlin
- Cody Muhlenkamp
- Christopher Nauss
- Rebecca Ristow
- Elysabet Olmstead
- John & Krista Schloss
- Stephen Keller
- James Prescott
- Michele Miller
- Amy Pate
- William (Bill) McCully
- Jon Paul Keller
- Sharyn Kaiser
- Heather Bosley
- Mari Anna Shepherd
- Nancy Witt
- Paige Korenstra
- Victoria Marks
- Daniel Peterson
- Roland & Connie Slyby
- Wes & Kathy Young
- George & Cathy Browne
- Dana Pahud
- William Hasbrook
- David Hoover
- Anne Jones
- Rebecca Mount
- John Sweeney
- Terry Griffith
- Brad & Peg Schuldt
- Lynn & Jo Sickafoose
- Steve Conrad
- Greg & Susanne Hoffman
- Ernest & Anne Keller
- Charlie & Judy Cox
- Bill & Cheryl Killam
- Fritz Helmuth
- Charlie & Debbie Collins
- Anthony & Jan Hensel
- Joe Forgey
- Stephen Wethor
- Dan & Lori Reynolds
- Donald A Holsinger
- George W & Sonjia S Gilbert
- Todd & Kelly Kriegel
- Irma Morris
- Steve & Annie Wills
- Steven Springer
- Matthew & Casey Dellen
- Bruce & Barbara Goslee
- Doug & Beth Morris
- John & Leslie Rapp
- Ric & Marcella Buckles
- Mark & Joan Knecht
- Russell & Marla Carlson
- Randy & Ann Riggs
- Michael Zumbrun
- Brad & Cathi Merryman
- Bill & Mary Boussum
- Mary & Tom Dormin
- Tom & Priscilla Jackson
- Jack Dahm
- Mike & Christina Baker
- Joe & Karen Stiles
- Tom & Marcia Morgan
- Chip & Julie Traub
- Jack & Diane Zimmerman
- Ken Nord
- Greg & Lei Gartland
- Sandra Green
- Jim & Krista Campbell
- William Davis
- Dave Matz
- Doug & Karen Grant
- Gerald D. Mann
- Mark & Rita Matson
- Elly & Gunar Grubaums
- Billie Ganz
- Ms. Lou Ann Tabor
- Todd Eby
- Randy & Jo Baskerville
- Don & Kay McCulloch
- Tom & Nancy Cottrell
- Jan Hackleman
- Mark Botts
- Tom & Barbara Stieglitz
- Russell & Mary Anderson
- Joe A. Simpson
- Mike & Jane Messmer
- Gary Doll
- Jaqueline Scott
- Judy & Bruce Roberts
- John & Fran Pasalich
- Janet Keim
- Edward & Patricia Kott
- Drew & Cheryl Briscoe
- Edward & Mary Bentz
- Doug & Rie Sylvester
$1 - $99
- The Jarretts
- Megan & Brian Gau
- Bernard Niezer
- Tom Houlihan
- Bill McCabe
- Robert Schreck
- Diane Zimmerman
- Cheryl Smith
- Julie K Gilpin
- Shannon McNett Silcox
- Lori A Cook
- Steven Crell
- Michael Smith
- Dan Federspiel
- Laura Alerding
- Debra Federspiel
- David Petermann
- Kristin Bailey
- Tony Giese
- Cynthia Wuebker
- Catherine Handley
- Nena Klotz
- Carmel House
- Becky Marler
- Jane Reinke
- Ann Godsey
- Susan & Steve Brizius
- Timothy S McCrea
- Debbie Jovanovich
- Susan Littlefield
- Mary Kiefer
- Christopher Long
- Jack Jennings
- Leighton Wells
- Linda Harkleroad
- Matthew S Hofferth
- Phyllis Payer
- Carolyn McClure
- Camby Ferdon
- Laura Studebaker
- Timothy O'Connor
- Cheryl Furniss
- Kenneth Eber
- Shelley Tisza
- Tammie Sopczak
- Jerry Ludlow
- Scott Brown
- Michael Moore
- Jason Wilson
- Rose Mary Reasner
- Mary Katsaropoulos
- Linda Haffner
- Shanna & Robert Haecker
- Therese (Terry) Wallace
- Dave & Rose Forsthoefel
- Gayle Shaum
- Gretchen & Peter Rogers
- Marvin Galbreath
- Helen Queisser & Family
- Janet Bitner
- Jerry & Connie Wilson
- Joan Szynal
- Marc & Kris Stahl
- Donn Huber
- Adela, Alyson, Elise, Jacquie, Jean Luc, Steve & Wyatt
- Jan & Jay Brill
- Barbara A Souder
- Janet Burt & Amy Hart
- David Ward
- Jeffrey Nelson
- Sally Stolz
- Scott Rainey
- Jennifer Ennis
- Rebecca Mattern
- Susan Machledt
- McTeague
- John & June Foerg
- Paul & Linda Austin
- Ann Cavender
- Rose Peterson
- Patsy & Larry Line
- Erin Modisett
- Thomas J Everett
- Kelvin Skeats
- Maureen Foy (Joseph Foy)
- B Sue Haddon
- Rosemarie Swiatek
- Brenda Mishler
- Ruth Ann Webster