enthusiasm, an abiding faith in the inherent goodness of his fellowmen, a devotion to duty that permitted
of no favoritism or partiality, an eagerness to counsel with his brethren on all occasions and a willingness
to assume responsibility at all times. He was totally devoid of all undue ostentation and his genial smile,
gracious demeanor and pleasing personality won him a host of friends everywhere. His every act
demonstrated Masonic principles in practice, for to him Masonry is a way of life—is the way of life—and
the concept of the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man a reality.
Along with his many Masonic commitments he gave generously of his time, interest and service to civic
activities and projects, constantly endeavoring to make his community the best and most attractive of all.
He was an active member of the Rotary Club and for many years has served as a Trustee of the First
Methodist Church of Everett.
Most Worshipful Brother Walter T Higgins was called from labor on February 13, 1991, and was laid to
rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Everett.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Herbert A. Davis: 1956-1957
Most Worshipful Brother Herbert A. Davis was born on August 2, 1897,
at Colorado Springs, Colorado. He attended grade school and high school
at Colorado Springs, and later graduated from high school at Burley,
Idaho, in 1916. Upon graduation from high school he was admitted to
Stanford University, graduating and receiving the degree of Bachelor of
Arts, and continuing his education at Stanford he received the degree of
Juris Doctor in 1923.
Professionally he was admitted to the State Bars of California and
Washington the year of his graduation from Law School. In addition, he
was now a member of the Okanogan County Bar Association and the
American Bar Association. He served as Prosecuting Attorney of
Okanogan County from 1926 to 1930 and from 1934 to 1938. He had
been City Attorney of the City of Okanogan continuously since 1931 with
leave of absence granted during his military service. The position was kept open for him until his return,
and he served the City of Okanogan until his passing.
His record in the military service of our country was outstanding. He was a veteran of both World Wars.
He was a Reserve Officer from 1921, first in the Field Artillery and then in the Air Corps. He retired in
1956 with the rank of Major. As a loyal American and demonstrating his love of country he was active in
the affairs of the American Legion, and again his worth and ability were recognized, first as a member of
the Okanogan Post and then when he held various offices on the Post, District and Department levels.
He was chosen as Department Commander in 1949-1950.
In 1929 he was united in marriage to Elizabeth C. Clark. Elizabeth has been a real partner sharing with
him the many inconveniences of absences from home due to his professional, military, youth, community,
and Masonic services. Though no children were born to this union, our good brother was deeply interested
in the welfare of the nation's youth, and gave much of his time to the Boy Scouts of America. He advanced
from Troop Committeeman to Scout Master, District Chairman and Council President. In 1936 he received
from the national office the highest council honor, the Silver Beaver. From 1954-1955 he was president
of the North Central Washington Council Boy Scouts of America. He was selected as a member of the
Regional Executive Committee and attended the membership meeting at Boise, Idaho, in 1959. He was a
member of the National Council, and attended the national meeting in San Francisco in 1959. His
contribution to the program of Scouting was sincere and effective.
He was also active and a leader in the affairs of his community at large: First Aid Instructor and Director
of the American Red Cross, County Chairman of three U.S.O. drives, County Chairman of two Crusades
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for Freedom, County Chairman for Civil Defense, Chairman of the County Planning Commission,
President of the Okanogan Chamber of Commerce, Trustee of the Omak Memorial Hospital, and Trustee
of his Presbyterian Church.
He has been equally active in Freemasonry in which service he has been most loyal. His Masonic
affiliations are almost all-inclusive. He was Initiated, Passed, and Raised in Tonasket Lodge No. 220, in
1928. He transferred his membership to Okanogan Lodge No. 169, in 1932 and served as Master in 1936.
He was District Deputy under Most Worshipful Brothers Charles. P. Kirtland, John A. Emigh and
Matthew W. Hill.
He served on the Grand Lodge Jurisprudence Committee for three years, and on the Grievance and
Appeals Committee for two years. He was Grand Orator in 1950. He was elected as Junior Grand Warden
at the 1953 Communication at Spokane and served successively as Senior Grand Warden, Deputy Grand
Master and Installed as Grand Master at the 1956 Grand Lodge Communication at Kennewick – the first
to be elected from Okanogan County.
Additional Masonic and concordant memberships include Walter F. Meier Lodge of Research No. 281,
Wenatchee Consistory Scottish Rite; Okanogan Chapter No. 41, Royal Arch Masons; Royal and Select
Masters; Chas. B. Reed Council, No. 14, Wenatchee; Okanogan Valley Commandary, Knights Templar;
El Katif Temple (Shrine), Spokane; The National Sojourners and St. Raphael Conclave, Red Cross of
Constantine, Spokane.
th
Our Past Grand Master, in apparent good health, died suddenly at home on the 9 day of November in
1959. As an enduring legacy, Most Worshipful Herbert Davis and his wife, Elizabeth, left a trust fund of
$300,000 to Okanogan Lodge No. 169 with the stipulation that the money generated through interest and
investments be used “for the benefit of the youth of Okanogan County and other charitable purposes.” In
addition, a grant program has been established through the fund that will provide money for “imaginative
projects and programs” operated by non-profit organizations that benefit the county’s citizens.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Ronald W. Meier: 1955-1956
Ronald Wilson Meier was born at Spokane, Washington on August
11, 1909. At the age of six months, the family moved to Seattle. His
elementary and high school education was received in the public
schools of Seattle. In 1930, he graduated cum laude from the
University of Washington with the degree of Bachelor of Arts; and
in 1931, secured the degree of Bachelor of Laws. Most Worshipful
Brother Meier was a member of the scholastic honorary fraternity,
Phi Beta Kappa, and the legal honorary fraternity, Order of the Coif.
On being admitted to the practice of law in January of 1932, he was
associated with his father in that profession until his father's demise
in 1940. He would continue this practice until his retirement in 1977.
Our brother’s Masonic journey began with his raising on December
11, 1930 in George Washington Lodge No. 251, in Seattle. From that
moment on a new motivating force began to show its effect and events took place in a steady pace. By
1939, he had attained to the station of Worshipful Master of George Washington Lodge. Later, he became
a dual member of Walter F. Meier Lodge of Research No. 281, the research Lodge named in memory of
his distinguished father. Concordant bodies of Masonry attracted his attention and membership was
obtained in the Scottish Rite Bodies of Seattle (he was coroneted 33° on December 29, 1949); Oriental
Chapter No. 19, Royal Arch Masons; Nile Temple of the Shrine; Seattle High Twelve Club and St. Alban
Conclave, No. 18, Red Cross of Constantine, of which he served as Illustrious Sovereign. Also, he was
Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of New York, near the Grand Lodge of Washington.
From June, 1945 to June of 1946, he held the appointment of Grand Orator, an office he filled with honor
and distinction. From June of 1947 to June of 1952, his services were continued to the Grand Lodge as a
member of the Committee on Jurisprudence. This latter service was terminated by the brethren of Grand
Lodge, they believing he should move forward into greater fields of labor and service when they elected
him to the office of Junior Grand Warden. In successive years, advancement was made through the stations
of Senior Grand Warden and Deputy Grand Master, and on June 23, 1955, the zenith of a brilliant Masonic
career had been attained as Most Worshipful Brother Ronald Wilson Meier was installed as Grand Master
of Masons in Washington. His installation marked the first time in the history of the Grand Lodge of
Washington that the exalted position of Grand Master had been occupied by a father and son combination,
Most Worshipful Brother Walter Frederick Meier, the father, having been installed into office as the 64th
Grand Master of our Grand Lodge on June 17, 1926.
Unfortunately, the father did not live to realize the fulfillment of his son's ambitions and hopes, having
passed from this life at an untimely age on July 19, 1940.
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In addition, not only did the capable son follow in the footsteps of his illustrious father in the Masonic
Fraternity, but in other phases of life as well. In his professional field of endeavor, Most Worshipful
Brother Meier was a member of the Seattle Bar Association (member of the Board of Trustees from 1944
to 1947), the Washington State Bar Association and the American Bar Association. In addition, though
duties and obligations became more and more extended, time was provided to take an active interest in
the spiritual life of his family and city, as he also served a three-year term on the vestry of his Episcopal
Church.
Our Most Worshipful Brother was called from his earthly labors to that Celestial Lodge above on May
26, 1980.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Lester E. Hitt: 1954-1955
Most Worshipful Brother Lester E. Hitt was born on May 5, 1893, at
Brainerd, Minnesota, the son of Frank and Elizabeth Hitt. Due to his
father's business taking him to various parts of this country, our brother
received his education in Minnesota, California, and Washington. He also
served with distinction in the U. S. Air Corps in World War I.
He received his Masonic Degrees in Aurora Lodge No. 100, Ancient Free
& Accepted Masons of Minnesota, in 1917. He later moved to Seattle
where he affiliated with St. John's Lodge No. 9; and upon moving to
Aberdeen, he affiliated with Aberdeen Lodge No. 52, serving as its
Worshipful Master in 1945.
His talents being recognized, he was appointed Junior Grand Steward in
1947, Deputy of the Grand Master in 1948 and 1949, Grand Lecturer in
1950, and elected Junior Grand Warden in 1951. In succession he was elected Senior Grand Warden,
Deputy Grand Master, and was elected Grand Master in June of 1954. Most Worshipful Brother Hitt
brought to the office of Grand Master the training and outlook of the engineering profession. He was
affable, courteous, and considerate at all times. He upheld the dignity of the Fraternity, and was
courageous and mindful of his obligations in the discharge of his duties, and rightfully earned the respect
and acclaim of his brethren.
His Masonic service included serving as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of China near the
Grand Lodge of Washington, a member of the Scottish and York Rite Bodies, Worthy Patron of
Rhododendron Chapter No, 45, Order of Eastern Star in 1941, and elected Worthy Grand Patron of the
Grand Chapter of Washington, Order of Eastern Star in 1945.
Our Most Worshipful Brother was actively engaged in his profession as an industrial engineer in Aberdeen
until his retirement, at which time, he and his good wife moved to a retirement home at Woodburn,
Oregon. Shortly after they moved to their new home, Most Worshipful Brother Hitt was stricken with an
illness which caused his death. On July 23, 1964, Most Worshipful Brother Lester Hitt received the final
summons and laid down the working tools of this earthly life to take his place in that Celestial Lodge on
High.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Fred Winkels: 1953-1954
Most Worshipful Brother Fred Winkels, the son of John and Elizabeth
Winkels, was born in Winona, Minnesota on November 17, 1892. His
parents being of thrifty, pioneer stock, saw visions in the West and ten
years later moved with their children to Spokane. It was here that he
completed the Grade and High Schools in the City of Spokane and later
studied metallurgy and assaying, practicing that profession in Colorado
and later in California but returned to Spokane in 1912 to become
associated with his father in the wholesale and retail meat business. It
speaks volumes for the Masonic traits of stability and dependability in that
he continued the same business and in the same location until he retired in
February 1954, a period of approximately forty-two years. During his long
and honorable career in Spokane, Brother Winkels' sphere of influence
widened beyond the confines of the city. His business savvy and judgment was so respected that for years
he had been on the advisory board of the Inland Empire's Food Dealers' Association.
His Masonic journey began on March 1, 1923, when he applied for the degrees of Masonry in East Gate
Lodge No. 222. He would receive his Entered Apprentice Degree on May 21, 1923; be passed to the
Fellow Craft Degree on June 28, 1923; and raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason on July 19,
1923. He would advance quickly through the chairs, being elected to serve as Worshipful Master in 1926.
Our Brother would be appointed by Most Worshipful Brother John Preissner as Custodian of the Work in
1933. It was said that he was one of the best ritualists in the Grand Jurisdiction, having passed several
examinations and secured a three year Certificate of Ritual Proficiency at each examination. A subsequent
appointment in 1935 to the position of Deputy of the Grand Master would be granted by Most Worshipful
Brother Walter Steffey. Following his tenure as Deputy, he served as a member of the Masonic Home
Board. During that period he was recommended and appointed Representative of the Grand Lodge of
Maryland near the Grand Lodge of Washington. He would be elected Junior Grand Warden in 1950
making the regular progression through the line officers' stations, being elected and installed Grand Master
in June 1953. Most Worshipful Brother Winkels brought to the brethren of the Grand Lodge of
Washington a capacity for close personal friendships and the ability to have with that membership a deep
human understanding.
Following his service as Grand Master, he served as Fraternal Correspondent until his death on June 24,
1974. Loyalty and willingness had been his first and foremost consideration. From our records and from
those of many Fraternal Correspondents in other Jurisdictions, he was considered the Dean of writers.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Lemuel W. Sims: 1953-1953
Most Worshipful Brother Lemuel (Lem) Ward Sims was born near
Fletchers, Alabama on October 18, 1895. His southern origin was
reflected in his gracious manner and his love for Southern stories.
After attending grade and high school, he enlisted in the United
States Navy, serving from 1916 to 1920, taking special courses in
ordnance, gunnery, and torpedoes at the submarine base in New
London, Connecticut. Later he was assigned to USS 0-11, prior to
his honorable discharge on January 13, 1920.
He then came to Seattle because he felt that the Northwest afforded
greater opportunity than did his native Alabama. He was first
employed as night foreman and substation operator with the Rainier
Valley Street Car System, advancing to the position of electrical
inspector and automatic controllers' maintenance. He took
advanced courses in electricity and electrical metering. In 1924 he joined Seattle City Light, serving there
in various capacities until his retirement November 1, 1960, after 36 years of service.
His deep interest in Masonry began when he was raised in Green Lake Lodge No. 149 on May 28, 1927.
He served Green Lake as Worshipful Master in 1941, filling various places and stations following his
appointment as Marshal. Since completing his term as Worshipful Master, he has continuously served the
Grand Lodge, with honor and distinction. For three terms he was Deputy of the Grand Master, June 1942
– June 1945. He was a member of the Grand Lodge Committee on Grievance and Appeals in 1945- 46;
Chairman of the Committee on Masonic Research and Education, 1946-47 and Grand Lecturer for two
terms, 1947-48 and 1948-49.
Ever a deep student with particular interest in the esoteric work he rendered the Fraternity an outstanding
service as Grand Lecturer by segregating and compiling the rituialistic work which was condensed into
three books, as authorized by the code. This stupendous task was undertaken under Grand Master Stewart
E. Perry. He compiled and corrected a master copy of the esoteric formula under the direction of Grand
Master Delos A. Shiner the following year. The latter work became a permanent record in the Grand
Lodge archives, a tribute to the industry and assiduity of Most Worshipful Brother Sims, whose knowledge
of Masonic history and background is based on extended study and research. His work "Masonic
Courtesies" filled a long felt want and was a text book for officers who aspired to the East, giving them
wise counsel on Lodge procedure and the duties and responsibilities of those filling the places and stations.
His outstanding record in Masonic circles brought him into the limelight at Grand Lodge. Consequently
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his election as Junior Grand Warden at Seattle in 1949 was a logical event in a distinguished Masonic
career. He successively attained the position of Senior Grand Warden, Deputy Grand Master until 1952
at Wenatchee he was installed in the Grand EasL His record as Grand Master will bear comparison with
his illustrious predecessors in that high office.
Our Most Worshipful Brother was married to the former Grace Lorraine Simmons on January 1, 1926.
She is a Past Matron of Occidental Chapter, No. 28, O.E.S. Their son, L. Bruce Sims, was a member of
Exemplar Lodge No. 284, Seattle. Before attaining his majority he served as Master Councilor of Green
Lake Chapter, Order of DeMolay, and State Master Councilor of Washington DeMolay.
Most Worshipful Brother Sims was a valiant worker in DeMolay circles. He was chairman of the advisory
board of Green Lake Chapter from 1938 to 1948, was awarded the DeMolay Cross of Honor, and was
invested with the Honorary Legion of Honor.
He was one of the organizers of Exemplar Lodge No. 284, serving as its Secretary four years. He was
granted honorary memberships in Renton Lodge No. 29, Diamond Lodge No. 83, Lakeside Lodge, No.
258, and Alki Lodge, No. 152.
It was the ambition of our Most Worshipful Brother, after retirement, to drive through the Southern States
and once again visit his native Alabama. It was while on this trip with his wife that he was stricken with
a heart attack at the home of his sister in Mount Pleasant, Texas. He was rushed to a hospital in Tyler,
Texas, where he passed away on February 23, 1961.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Harold N. Nelsen: 1951-1952
Most Worshipful Brother Harold N. Nelsen was born in Prentice,
Wisconsin, on October 14, 1898. He graduated from Prentice High
School, and entered the military service in 1918. His education was
continued at the University of Wisconsin upon the completion of his
military service in World War I. His first employment was with the
Bank of Prentice, attaining the position of Assistant Cashier.
In 1922, he followed Horace Greeley's advice, "Go West young man,
go West," and arrived in Prosser in 1923 where he established the H
N Nelsen Insurance Company, a firm which was known for its
advertising slogan: "Suppose you have a fire tonight?" He built two
major buildings in downtown Prosser, and spearheaded a drive for a
new bank in Prosser. Whether it was for a hospital, a swimming pool,
a Methodist Church School building, a sylvan stage in the park, a new
Northern Pacific depot, or $70,000.00 for a new industry — Most Worshipful Brother Nelsen was calling
the signals. No wonder he had received the distinction of being awarded the Chamber of Commerce's
Outstanding Citizen Award.
His Masonic career was no less eventful than his life of public service. He was elected to Masonic
membership in Phillips Lodge No. 225 in Phillips, Wisconsin, in October of 1922. The degrees were
conferred in Seattle by Ionic Lodge No. 90; the First on March 14, 1923; the Second on April 11, 1923;
and the Third on May 11, 1923. In 1924 he dimitted from Ionic Lodge to Euclid Lodge No. 125, being
elected Junior Warden in December of that year. He served Euclid Lodge as Worshipful Master for two
terms, 1927 and 1928. From 1930 to 1943 he continued his service in Euclid Lodge as Secretary. In 1934
he was among the first appointed to the newly created position of Deputy of the Grand Master. He was
appointed to the Masonic Home Board in June of 1946, by Grand Master Gus H. Schultz and served two
years. In June 1948, he was elected Junior Grand Warden, advancing to the office of Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge in 1951.
As Grand Master he was particularly proud of the fact that during his year there was developed a list of
well over a hundred names of Brother Masons who had signified their willingness to accept speaking
engagements from any Lodge without cost except for travel expenses. It was his belief that if the Lodges
used the services of these brethren that the membership would improve themselves in Masonry and the
Lodges would thereby be greatly benefited.
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It is most interesting to note that he practically divorced himself from his business during his year as Grand
Master, devoting his entire time to that office. He traveled some 35,000 miles in that year in his Masonic
journeys.
His other Masonic affiliations included membership in Royal Arch Masons at Sunnyside; Scottish Rite
Bodies at Kennewick (K.C.C.H.); El Katif Temple of the Shrine at Spokane; Sunshine Chapter No. 94
O.E.S.; and honorary membership in Tanana Lodge No. 162, Wapato Lodge No. 171, Benton Lodge No.
277, and Lawton Lodge No. 299.
At the time of his death he was serving as Mayor of Prosser, having been elected in June of 1962 in a
record-breaking landslide, receiving 83% of the total vote. Under his skillful leadership, the city had
blossomed and burgeoned with many major improvements and developments. One of his most important
contributions was his work in helping to solve a vexing problem of odor and "glop" in the water. He was
in his office at City Hall on May 25, 1966, when he sustained a massive brain hemorrhage which resulted
in his death.
A community leader, a Masonic leader, a leader in any activity with which he became associated, his
dynamic energy, his boundless enthusiasm, and his sincere interest in others and their welfare, won the
support and confidence of all with whom he came in contact.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Gail Huhn: 1950-1951
Most Worshipful Brother Gail Huhn was born January 28, 1902, in
Grafton, North Dakota, and came to Seattle with his family shortly
thereafter. There he attended the University Heights Grade School
and Lincoln High School, graduating from the latter in 1921. While
at Lincoln High he participated in both basketball and football. He
was honored as All-City Center in the latter sport, notwithstanding
that he was outweighed by his opponent in every game he played. It
was said that this was but typical of the way he played the game of
life; he might be outweighed, but never outworked or outfought.
He was also employed in his high school days by Perrine Machinery
Company and Martin Sales & Engineering Company, thus being able
to contribute to the support of the family. Soon after graduation, he
entered the employ of The Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company and continued with that company
until his death, working his way to the upper echelon of its engineering department.
Our Brother’s Masonic journey began in 1933 when he was initiated, passed, and raised in Daniel Bagley
Lodge No. 238. He would serve as its Worshipful Master in 1940. He was also a charter member of Walter
F. Meier Lodge of Research No. 281, but dimitted in 1947 to affiliate with Warren G. Harding Lodge No.
260 as a dual member. He held honorary memberships in Franklin Lodge No. 5, Port Orchard Lodge No.
98, Bremerton Lodge No, 117, Tanana Lodge No. 162 (Fairbanks, Alaska), William H Upton Lodge No.
260, Lawton Lodge No. 292, and St. Andrew's No. 49 (Victoria, Grand Lodge of British Columbia).
Gail, as he liked to be called, was active in the Grand Lodge since 1940 and was Grand Marshal in 1943-
1944. He served the Grand Lodge as a member of the Research and Education Committee and the
Jurisprudence Committee, being on the latter for the three years immediately preceding his election as
Junior Grand Warden in 1947. He advanced regularly through the Grand Lodge line until elected Grand
Master in 1950.
In the Record of the Proceedings of the 1951 Annual Communication, Past Grand Master Matthew Hill
wrote these words about our Most Worshipful Brother: “Another year and another Grand Master, but what
a year and what a Grand Master! Most Worshipful Brother Gail Huhn has, during the year 1950- 1951,
gone throughout this Grand Jurisdiction and beyond, preaching and teaching grassroots Masonry. Down
to earth, practical, helpful, and yet in a very real sense inspirational, Gail (Everybody calls him that, so
why shouldn't we?) has had as a slogan, "Plan Ahead." He has not only talked about the problem of Lodge
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attendance, but he has in a direct and forthright manner pointed out to the officers of our Lodges the things
that they can and should do to get their members out and to keep them coming. His insistence on prompt
opening and early closing, with something of real value in between.” To Most Worshipful Brother Gail
Huhn, the "in between" was a combination of information, inspiration, and fellowship; and the greatest of
these being fellowship.
As a Past Grand Master, he never missed a session of the Grand Lodge; and again served for a number of
years on the Jurisprudence Committee. He was additionally named an Honorary Past Grand Master of the
Grand Lodges of Alberta and Idaho.
Outside of the Blue Lodge, he was a member of University Chapter No. 32, Royal Arch Masons, in Seattle,
and a life member of El Zor Grotto, M.O.V.P.E.R., in Bremerton. He has been a member of Nile Temple,
A.A.O.N.O.M.S., since 1935.
He was also active in the Scottish Rite, having his membership in the Seattle Bodies and having served as
Venerable Master of the Lodge of Perfection and Commander of the Council of Kadosh. He became 33°
Inspector General Honorary in 1949, and in 1960 became the Deputy of the Supreme Council for the
Orient of Washington, which position he filled with honor and distinction thanks in large part to his wife,
Justina, who handled vast amount of secretarial work involved.
It should be noted that Justina was the subject of a formal resolution by the 1951 Grand Lodge wherein it
expressed its appreciation for her services as scribe of the Grand Master and in connection with the
administrative details of his office.
Most Worshipful Brother Gail Huhn laid down his working tools on July 25, 1963. In his memorial to our
good brother, Most Worshipful Stewart Perry said this:
“No accumulation of degrees or titles, no accretions of rank or honors ever caused him to forget for a
single moment that he was an individual Mason, He could and would see no bar to cooperative action
between York Rite and Scottish Rite, or any other group of Masons, simply because to him they were all
made up of individual Masons, sharing in that respect, a common lot with their brothers, and therefore
interested in the welfare of each and all."
“To him, it was time to forget past rivalries, dissensions, jealousies, and animosities. To him, the time was
ripe to foster the spirit of unity, cooperation, togetherness. He was "an exemplar of planned leadership in
a united and cooperative Masonry, concerned with BUILDING TEMPLES IN THE HEARTS OF MEN."
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Henry C. Heal: 1949-1950
Most Worshipful Brother Henry (Harry) Charles Heal was born on April
16, 1880, in Fareham, Hampshire County, England. His formal education,
although somewhat limited, included business training, and he was
employed in various capacities by several business establishments. In
1901, at the age of 21, he journeyed to Red Bluff, California, where he
was employed in a dry goods store owned by an uncle. Not liking the
climate of California, at the suggestion of his mother, he ventured north,
and while visiting another uncle in Seattle, accepted a position in the Fair
Department Store in Bellingham. He worked first as a clerk, then in the
office and bookkeeping departments, subsequently becoming Secretary-
Treasurer of the business.
He would attract the attention of Mr. E. W. Purdy, President of the First National Bank, who in 1907
offered him a position. Feeling that the banking field offered greater opportunities for advancement, he
accepted, working first as Collection Teller, then advancing through different positions to Cashier, Trust
Officer, and Director. When this bank became part of the Seattle-First National system in 1939, he became
Vice-President, Manager and Trust Officer of the Bellingham Branch, a position that he held until his
retirement at the end of 1948. He served continuously in the bank for over forty-one years.
In civic activities, Most Worshipful Brother Heal was Treasurer of the American Red Cross, Whatcom
County Chapter, from 1920 to 1947, when he was made an honorary member of the Board, and an
honorary member of the American Red Cross, in recognition of his years of faithful service a Trustee and
Treasurer of St. Luke's General Hospital, Bellingham, for thirty years Chairman of the Whatcom County
War Finance Committee, directing every War Bond Drive during World War II. Member of Bellingham
Chamber of Commerce, serving as President in 1945-1946. For one term a Director of the National Credit
Men's Association. A member and officer of several clubs, the Hobby Club, the Twentieth Century, and
the Bellingham Civic Music Association. A long-time member of the Bellingham Rotary Club, and in
1933, its President. He served as Governor of District 151 of this organization in 1952. A life member of
the Bellingham Elks Lodge, serving as Treasurer for a number of years.
Throughout his residence in Bellingham, Most Worshipful Brother Heal was a member of St. Paul's
Episcopal Church, serving as church treasurer, vestryman, Junior Warden and Senior Warden,
respectively. He was a lay reader of that denomination.
He was an acknowledged authority on ancient, modern, and religious history; a gifted artist in pastels,
oils, and water colors, and an accomplished musician.
His Masonic record was almost as long as his record of public service. He was initiated, passed, and raised
in Whatcom Lodge No. 151, in 1908. He served one year as Lodge Secretary and was then elected Junior
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Warden, Senior Warden, and finally Worshipful Master in 1912. He was Treasurer of the Lodge for thirty-
three years, retiring from that office in 1952. Most Worshipful Brother Heal was also an honorary member
of Lynden No. 56, Fairhaven No. 73, Tanana No. 162, and Bellingham Bay No. 44.
Additionally, he was Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of England near the Grand Lodge of
Washington.
He was a regular attendant and active participant in the affairs of Grand Lodge. In 1940 he was appointed
to the Masonic Home Board and served two years. He was then appointed Grand Orator and following
this served three years on the Jurisprudence Committee. Elected Junior Grand Warden in 1946, he
thereafter advanced each year, becoming Grand Master at the Grand Lodge Annual Communication at
Seattle in 1949.
It is said that the year Most Worshipful Brother Heal presided as Grand Master was one of the happiest
ever experienced by Grand Lodge. The great number of visits he made combined with his friendliness and
congeniality left a host of personal friends in all parts of Washington and Alaska. With not only the largest
membership ever attained, and the greatest period of material prosperity, but also the general feeling of
fraternal good fellowship, the members of the Grand Lodge will look upon the year just closing as a year
of great service and growth.
Following his tenure as Grand Master, he served on the Finance Committee until the spring of 1958 when
he resigned owing to poor health. Most Worshipful Brother Henry (Harry) Charles Heal passed to the
Supreme Grand Lodge on August 17, 1958.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Delos A. Shiner: 1948-1949
Most Worshipful Brother Delos Abram Shiner, son of Henry and
Cynthia Shiner, was born on April 19, 1885 in Bellville, Ohio. He
received his public school education in the country school at North
Wheeler, and his high school education at Alma, Michigan. He
graduated from the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, receiving
a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1909, and the Degree of Juris Doctor in
1911. While a student at that University he was a member of the
Acacia Fraternity.
Upon graduation he decided to come west to follow his chosen
profession, locating in Wenatchee in 1912, where he opened a law
office. He was a member of the Chelan County, State and American
Bar Associations; and licensed to practice law in Michigan and
Washington States and in the United States Courts. He served during World War I, and for six years as
Attorney for the City of Wenatchee.
His interests were many and varied. He took an active part in the civic, social and fraternal affairs of the
community, being one of the organizers and second president of the Wenatchee Golf and Country Club.
In 1922 he served as Exalted Ruler of Wenatchee Lodge No. 1186 of the Elks, and as president of the
Rotary Club in 1926. His great interest was in youth work, especially the Boy Scouts of America and, as
a tribute to his outstanding work in that organization, the National Council conferred upon him the order
of Silver Antelope, which is the highest Regional honor within its power to bestow. He was a member of
the Wenatchee Chamber of Commerce, active in Community Chest Drives, and was Chairman of the
Chelan County War Finance Committee during World War II. He was also responsible for the creation of
the Lanham Foundation, which grants scholarships to college students.
Our Most Worshipful Brother was raised in Breckenridge Lodge No. 406, Breckenridge, Michigan, on
November 2, 1908, and affiliated with Riverside Lodge No. 112 in Wenatchee on February 21, 1913. He
was appointed Senior Deacon in 1914, and served as Worshipful Master in 1917. His interest in the Craft
continued and was of great help in the organization of the Wenatchee Masonic Temple Association in
1923, serving as Counsel and Chairman until 1939.
He was Exalted a Royal Arch Mason in Wenatchee Chapter, No. 22, in 1923; received the degrees of
Royal and Select Masters in Chas. B. Reed Council No. 14 in 1924, and Knighted a Knight Templar in
1925. He was anointed a Master of the Royal Secret 32° in Wenatchee Consistory in 1946. He also held
membership in Afifi Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., and St. Albans Conclave, No. 18, Knights of the Red Cross
of Constantine at Seattle.
His activities in Grand Lodge included serving on the Grievance & Appeals Committee, 1933; District
Deputy Grand Master in District No. 21, 1934 to 1937; and member of Masonic Home Board, 1937 to
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1945. He would be elected as Junior Grand Warden at the 1945 Communication, and served successively
until his installation as Grand Master at the 1948 Grand Lodge Communication at Bellingham when the
Grand Lodge celebrated in a most dignified manner the coming of the Charter to the Northwest 100 years
ago. Throughout his tenure as Grand Master, our Most Worshipful Brother stressed the need for
participation in civic, youth, church, and governmental organizations.
On April 11, 1966, the Grand Architect of the Universe called Most Worshipful Brother Delos Abram
Shiner to labor in the Celestial Lodge on High.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Stewart E. Perry: 1947-1948
Most Worshipful Brother Stewart Edwin Perry was born on
March 6, 1890 in Puyallup, the only son of Edwin and Annie
(Stewart) Perry. He received his early education in the public
schools of Puyallup, later graduating from the University of
Washington. At the University he was a charter member of Delta
Upsilon Fraternity, a fraternity brothers that produced for our
jurisdiction a fair number of Grand Masters.
Soon after leaving the University, and for more than 30 years, he
became identified with the Commonwealth Title Insurance
Company of Tacoma; and has been further honored in his chosen
profession by being elected a member of the Executive Committee
of the Washington Land Title Association.
Married on September 6, 1916 to Erma Gale Cole, Brother Perry and his wife enjoyed raising prize-
winning gladiolus. His success in this latter field, with her assistance, twice brought him the Presidency
of the Washington Gladiolus Society, and his services were much in demand as a judge for shows as far
away as San Francisco.
His Masonic experience began on August 17, 1922, when he was made a Master Mason in Corinthian
Lodge No. 38. He was passed through all the appointive and elective offices, to become Worshipful Master
in 1933. Immediately taking an interest in Grand Lodge, he was appointed Deputy of the Grand Master in
District No. 13 in 1937, and again in 1938 and 1939.
He served two years on the important Jurisprudence Committee, where his ability was recognized, and he
was elected to the office of Junior Grand Warden in 1944, and then by successive steps to the office of
Grand Master in 1947, at Tacoma.
During all of these years of activity in Symbolic Masonry, Brother Perry found time to take a part in the
work of various other orders of Masonry. Receiving his Thirty-Second Degree in the Ancient and
Accepted Scottish Rite on May 16, 1924, he then served as Venerable Master of the Lodge of Perfection,
Wise Master of Chapter Rose Croix, Commander of the Council of Kadosh, and Master of Kadosh of
Tacoma Consistory. He was made a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor on October 19, 1937, and
coroneted Thirty-Third Degree Honorary on December 11, 1943.
Brother Perry held a life membership in Afifi Temple, A.A.O. Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of which he
was Illustrious Potentate in 1942. He is a member and Past Patron of Rhododendron Court No. 8, Order
of Amaranth at Puyallup; a member of Tacoma Chapter No. 4, Royal Arch Masons; an honorary member
of Bethel No. 8, Order of Job's Daughters; holds the Grand Cross of Color, Order of Rainbow for Girls,
and Honorary Legion of Honor, Order of DeMolay. His active service will not end with his term as Grand
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Master, as he is also President of the Pierce County Past Masters Association, and Sovereign for 1948 of
St. Albans Conclave No. 18, Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine. From the time he was Grand Master
until his death, he served as a Trustee of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association.
Most Worshipful Brother Stewart Edwin Perry was called from labor on September 21, 1967.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Gustav H. Schultz: 1946-1947
Most Worshipful Brother Gustav (Gus) Henry Schultz was
born in Danville, Illinois on August 19th, 1878, the third of
five children of native German parents who immigrated to this
country in 1870 and became naturalized Americans. He
attended the public schools of Danville and the Chicago
College of Pharmacy. After graduation he was engaged in his
own drug business until 1922 when he came West, first to
Denver and then to Seattle in 1925.
Brother Schultz was raised a Master Mason in Olive Branch
Lodge No. 38, in Danville, Illinois, in 1911. He would become
a charter member and the first Senior Warden of Anchor
Lodge No. 980, serving as Master in 1916. He was
commissioned as Grand Lecturer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois by Most Worshipful Grand Master Elmer
Beach. He received the 32nd Degree in Danville Consistory, A.A.S.R., Northern Jurisdiction, and served
as its High Priest of the Council, Princes of Jerusalem. He also became a member of Mohammed Temple,
A.A.O.N.M.S., at Peoria.
At the institution of Totem Lodge U. D. of Seattle in 1938, he served as its Junior Warden, and as its
charter Master in 1940. He assisted in the organization, and was a dual member of Exemplar Lodge No.
284. He affiliated with Washington Consistory, A.A.S.R., Southern Jurisdiction, in 1937, and was made
a Knight Commander Court of Honor in 1943. He was a member of Ballard Chapter No. 26, R. A. M., of
Seattle. He was an Honorary Member of Warren G. Harding Lodge No. 260, and of Home Lodge No.
100.
In 1941, our Brother would be appointed Grand Lecturer of our Grand Jurisdiction by Most Worshipful
Brother John A. Emigh, and re-appointed to this position in 1942. At the 86th Annual Communication of
the Grand Lodge of Washington at Wenatchee he was elected Junior Grand Warden, and, serving through
the line, was elected Grand Master at Spokane in June 1946.
Perhaps no words could express his way of life better than those with which he closed his message to the
Grand Lodge when he presided as Grand Master in 1947:
"In a few short hours, this gavel will pass to the hand of a very worthy and sincere Mason, and I shall
modestly again take my place among my brothers, pledging to the new Grand Master my services and
bespeaking for him the same devotion that you have accorded me. We will have come to the end of another
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year in our Grand Lodge. It has been a wonderful journey for me and a great adventure, an adventure into
the joys of companionship—into the loyalty of friendships—into the fellowship of service, with many
ever standing by as a great power moving us always forwards. “
"To have lived for a year near the very heart of Masonry is a rich experience that you have made possible
for me. My record is here. Its mistakes are my own; whatever its accomplishments are due to the part you
have all played in establishing it.”
A reply of silence was received when the name of Most Worshipful Brother Gustave Henry Schultz was
called on May 7, 1968.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Leslie W. Lee: 1945-1946
Most Worshipful Brother Leslie Ward Lee was born February 7,
1893, at Oregon City, Oregon. His parents being natives of
Minnesota, the family returned to their home state in 1895. It was
there where our Brother received his public school education,
graduating from the Crookston High School in 1912, the recipient of
special honors in debate, being a member of the Championship State
High School Debating team.
In 1916 he graduated from Iowa College, Grinnell, Iowa, with a B.
A. Degree and was signally honored by being elected into the
National Honorary Fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa. Additional
educational training was secured by graduate study at the
Universities of Minnesota, Washington and Stanford.
Upon graduation from college he entered upon the profession of education, serving as principal of the
High School at Manning, Iowa, in 1916-1917 and in a similar capacity at Montevideo, Minnesota, in 1917-
1918.
The First World War brought him to Washington, arriving at Camp Lewis in the spring of 1918. In the
fall of 1919 he entered upon his educational work in Washington by becoming the Superintendent of
Schools at Marcus, serving in that capacity until 1924. In 1924 he went to Odessa as Superintendent of
Schools, remaining there until 1941, when he became Director of Public Relations at the Eastern
Washington College of Education at Cheney.
Hi Masonic journey would begin in the spring of 1919 when Destiny Lodge No. 197, of Tacoma, elected
him to receive the degrees of Masonry. Due to his departure from Tacoma to Marcus, the degrees were
conferred through the courtesy of Kettle Falls Lodge No. 130. He was initiated on October 15, 1919,
passed November 19, 1919, and raised on December 17, I9I9. On his moving to Odessa in 1924, he
dimitted to Odessa Lodge No. 156, serving as its Master in 1932, and as its Secretary from 1933 to 1941.
His Grand Lodge activities began in 1934 when Most Worshipful Brother Loomis Baldrey appointed him
as the first District Deputy Grand Master for District No. 29. He remained in that capacity for two years,
and in 1936 he was made a member of the Committee on Jurisprudence by Most Worshipful Brother
Ralph E. Tieje, serving continuously thereon until 1942 when he was elected Junior Grand Warden. In
1945 the brethren elected him as their Grand Master.
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He also held membership in the Scottish Rite Bodies of Spokane, being made a Knight Commander of the
Court of Honor in 1946. He was also a Noble of El Katif Temple of the Shrine at Spokane.
Among his community activities, he was president of the Stevens County Educational Association, and
the Lincoln County Educational Association. He has also served as president of the Odessa Chamber of
Commerce, the Cheney Commercial Club, and the Spokane Rotary Club.
Most Worshipful Brother Leslie Ward Lee was called from labor on October 5, 1952.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Ford Q. Elvidge: 1944-1946
Most Worshipful Brother Ford Quint Elvidge was born in
Oakland, California on November 30, 1892. His early years were
spent in Oakland before moving with his parents and brother in
1911 to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
He took a business course there and then later became an articled
student-at-law and entered upon the study of law in Vancouver,
B. C. Uninterested in joining the Canadian bar, he moved to
Seattle in 1916 and entered the University of Washington. He
was studying law there when the United States entered World
War I in 1917. Elvidge enlisted in the US Army Reserve Corps.
He was commissioned and sent to training as part of the US
Medical Corps, making it as far as Camp Mills in New York before the armistice ending the war went into
effect.
In March of 1918 he was called into active service, in August was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant of
Infantry (13th Inf., 8th Div.) and in November of the same year was commissioned 1st Lieutenant. He did
not get "across" during the War. On February 28, 1919, he was honorably discharged from the Army at
Hoboken, N. J. In 1918 he was admitted to the Bar of the State of Washington and began working with
the law offices of Tucker and Hyland in Seattle. Eventually he founded Elvidge, Watt, Veblen & Tewell,
remaining there until his retirement in 1974.
Ford is a Past Master of Arcana Lodge, No. 87, of Seattle. He was Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of
Washington for the year 1940-1941, being elected Junior Grand Warden in 1941, and advanced
successively for meritorious service, culminating in his election as Grand Master in 1944. On his journey
to the Grand East, our Most Worshipful Brother found himself in the position of “Acting as Grand Master”
due to the untimely death of his predecessor, Most Worshipful Brother Donald Franklin Kizer.
He is a Past Wise Master of Washington Chapter of Rose Croix, Past Commander of Seattle Consistory,
A. A. S. R. S. J., U. S. A. In December of 1943 the Thirty-third Degree of Scottish Rite Masonry was
conferred upon him. Ford is a Past President of the Seattle High Twelve Club; a member of Nile Temple,
A. A. O. N. M. S.; member of the National Sojourners and Heroes of 76 (Puget Sound Chapter, No. 40);
Second Viceroy of St- Alban's Conclave, No. 18 (Knights of Red Cross of Constantine) and a member of
the Legion of Honor (Order of DeMolay). He is a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Phi,
American Legion, American Bar Association, a Past President of the College Club of Seattle, a past
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member of the Board of Trustees of the University of Washington Alumni Association, a Past President
of the Seattle Bar Association and at present a member of the Board of Governors of the Washington State
Bar Association.
In 1953, President Eisenhower tabbed Most Worshipful Brother Elvidge as the second appointed civilian
Governor of Guam. He would remain in that office until May 1956. According to historians Paul Carano
and Pedro Sanchez, his administration was defined by a determined effort to reduce government spending
and improving the territory’s medical facilities and school system. In addition, he tried to encourage the
local population to engage in western style commercial agriculture, but this effort was met with little
success.
He did, however, have several notable achievements. Using his experience as a lawyer, he was able to
negotiate with the naval authorities an agreement to increase power and water allocations for the general
public. Governor Elvidge also worked to get Guam included in the Federal National Mortgage Association
program, which helped provide funds for new housing or to build additions to existing housing for local
residents.
The Elvidge administration also developed an islandwide cleanup program. Upon his arrival on Guam,
Elvidge had observed that the island was littered with surplus military materials, abandoned automobile
wreckage, piles of dumped trash and other eyesores which presented a potential health hazard. The cleanup
campaign focused on education on proper sanitation procedures and village level efforts to remove
garbage. In January 1954, Elvidge focused on acquiring over $100,000 worth of surplus military property,
including plumbing supplies, heavy equipment, tools and typewriters. Many of these items were used by
the government and also by the newly opened vocational school.
Another of Governor Elvidge’s significant achievements was his proposal to convert the newly
constructed nursing school building at the Guam Memorial Hospital to a general hospital ward. The
nursing school was part of a new hospital complex being constructed in Oka, Tamuning. Elvidge feared
that funding would run out during the construction of the hospital due to decreasing tax revenues.
Although Elvidge’s plan was initially rejected by the Legislature, eventually by 4 June 1955, a new 6-
story, 65,000 square foot structure became a new wing of the permanent Guam Memorial Hospital.
Elvidge also worked toward the reopening of the Guam Museum in the garden house at the grounds of the
Plaza de España, forming a Parks, Monuments and Museum Committee to reestablish, equip and operate
the museum, as well as conduct studies and restore and preserve important historical landmarks.
Furthermore, during the Elvidge administration, Public Law 42 was passed, which allowed for jury trial
in certain cases within the jurisdiction of the newly established District Court of Guam. Cargo handling
rates at the Guam Commercial Port were reduced; the installation of a modern, islandwide telephone
system was completed, and new schools were built in Inarajan and Santa Rita.
At the national level, Elvidge traveled to Washington, DC and had discussions with the Department of
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Interior officials and President Eisenhower regarding progress on Guam. Elvidge desired to clarify how
and which federal laws were to be applied to Guam, especially in light of the Organic Act. He also
expressed interest in the territory having its own representative in Congress, asserting, “I think Guam
should have representation. They are not a large unit, but they are an integrated part of the United States.
Most Worshipful Brother Ford Quint Elvidge was called from labor at the age of 87 on July 14, 1982.
According to his obituary in the Seattle Times, he had served as a past president of the Seattle Bar
Association, the College Club and the University of Washington Law School Alumni Association and
was a former member of the board of the Washington State Bar Association. Elvidge was also a past
president of the Seattle chapter of the English-speaking Union and served as legal counsel to the British
consul in Seattle. In 1966, Queen Elizabeth II conferred on him the title of honorary commander of the
Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Donald F. Kizer: 1943-1944
Most Worshipful Brother Donald Franklin Kizer was born in St.
Paris, Ohio, on August 28, 1880. In 1890 his parents moved to
Spokane, where he and his older brother, Ben, received their early
education in the public schools. Even in their boyhood days, as well
as during their later careers as lawyers, the brothers were friendly
competitors in that they sold competing newspapers on the streets of
Spokane.
In order to finance his further education Don worked underground
in the Rossland and Coeur d'Alene mines for nearly three years and
took pride in the fact that he had been a "hard rock miner."
In 1904 Don received his degree of Bachelor of Law at the
University of Michigan and returned to Spokane, where he practiced
his profession during the remainder of his life. From 1907 to 1912
he served as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney of Spokane County. He then returned to private practice until
March of 1925, when he became United States District Attorney and served in that capacity until April of
1926. Preferring the private practice of law, he accepted no other public office, although many times urged
to do so.
Our Brother was initiated in Oriental Lodge No. 74, on April 1, 1912; passed on April 15, I9I2, and raised
on May 20, I9I2, serving as Worshipful Master of that Lodge in 1916.
He received the 32nd Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in 1912 and served as Sir
Preceptor of the Council of Kadosh and for many years as a member of the Coordinating Committee and
the Masonic Temple Association. In 1921 he received the rank of Knight Commander of the Court of
Honor, and in 1929 he was elected to receive the 33rd Degree. He was also a member of El Katif Temple,
A. A. O. N. M. S.
Most Worshipful Brother Kizer was the first Grand Master of this Jurisdiction to die during his term in
office. Following a strenuous series of visitations in Western Washington, he attended, in company with
Most Worshipful Brother J. G. Brown, the Grand Master of British Columbia, the installation of officers
of St. Andrews Lodge No. 37, in Victoria, B. C. While in Victoria he suffered an attack of influenza and
was taken to the Masonic Home at Zenith where he passed to his reward on February, 23, 1944.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ J. W. J. Stedman: 1942-1943
James William (Bill) Joseph Stedman was born in London, England,
the first of four children, to Joseph and Jane Stedman, on January 6,
1893. He was educated at the George Green School and the Schools
of the University of London, majoring in Bacteriology and Bio-
Chemistry. He entered the heavy chemical business, but in a very
short time became interested in the manufacture of edible vegetable
oils and the many products that are produced from these oils.
Coming to the United States in the early part of 1914, he soon found
employment in his chosen field, in New York and Chicago where he
helped to develop the first of the oleo margarines- Nucoa. However,
Bill had not gone far enough West, and in 1920 he established himself
in Tacoma as manager of the National Coconut Products Company.
He remained with this organization until 1943 when he was called to Washington, D.C, to assist the War
Foods Administration.
He was initiated in Destiny Lodge No. 197, on November 7, 1921; passed on November 21, 1921; and
raised on December 10, 1921, serving as Worshipful Master of that Lodge in 1928; after which he
continued to serve the Lodge in some capacity, being installed Organist for many years.
He joined the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in 1922, and soon became interested in its work, serving
as organist to the bodies for several years. He has served as Wise Master of Rose Croix and also as
Commander-in-Chief of the Consistory. He was made a Knight Commander Court Honor in 1937, and an
Inspector General Honorary on November 22, 1941.
He first attended Grand Lodge in 1926 at Spokane, and missed very few Grand Communications. Most
Worshipful Brother Frank L. Poole appointed him Grand Lecturer in 1937, and Most Worshipful Brother
W. Gale Matthews re-appointed him in 1938. In 1939 he was elected Junior Grand Warden, and was
advanced through the line and elected Grand Master in 1942.
The nation being at war during his tenure as Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Stedman had to
weigh the obligations of duty to our Nation versus his commitment to the Craft. All from whom he sought
advice assured him his expertise was needed in Washington, D.C, and he should go without hesitation. So
he apprised the other elective officers of their stepped up duties and moved to Washington, D.C.
For the remainder of the war and for several years that followed, he served as a Special Assistant to the
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Secretary of Agriculture. If the Department needed a "slick" trouble shooter, our Most Worshipful Brother
was called to assist. He was sent the world over, usually traveling by an Army cargo plane equipped with
no seats but only boxes to sit upon. His services proved vital to our nation's concerns for getting foods
safely to the fighting fronts and then to the world's hungry nations.
While serving his country in Washington, D.C, and being our Grand Master at the time, he presided over
the Conference of Grand Masters in Washington, D.C, in 1943. It was the first time in the history of the
Conference that all Jurisdictions in the United States were represented.
The 1943 Grand Lodge as held in Wenatchee with Right Worshipful Brother Don E. Kizer, Deputy Grand
Master, presiding. Most Worshipful, from Washington, D.C, sent the following telegram, in part: "It has
been a matter of regret to me that I could not live in the Jurisdiction of our Grand Lodge for the entire
length of my time as your Grand Master. I sincerely feel that the work I was called upon to do was
necessary to the country and the affairs of our Grand Lodge were in good hands."
After returning to Washington State in 1971, he resumed activities with local Masonic programs and
Grand Lodge appointments. He became a member of the Allied Masonic Degrees, serving that group as
Sovereign Master in 1980, and was appointed Grand Chaplain of the Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons
of Washington in 1976.
He served as Grand Lodge's Fraternal Correspondent for eight years and was appointed Grand
Representative of the United Grand Lodge of England near the Grand Lodge of Washington, a position
he held for many years. He continued to serve our Grand Lodge, attending to as many assignments as his
failing health would allow. His participation was forever being requested and he responded with
suggestions that always seemed just the "right thing to do."
His work amongst us complete, and his days of toil on Earth being over, Most Worshipful Brother James
William (Bill) Joseph Stedman entered into eternal rest on September 22, 1990.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ John A. Emigh: 1941-1942
Most Worshipful Brother John Austin Emigh was born in Seattle
on March 7, 1896, the third of eight children of Ward Emigh and
Margaret Moulton Emigh. The family moved to Walla Walla in
October of 1897, where the father engaged in the creamery
business.
He attended the public schools of Walla Walla, and was a student
at the University of Washington when he was called into the
services of his country in 1918. He was later associated with his
father in the creamery business both in Walla Walla and Eastern
Oregon, continuing in the family business after his father’s death in
1922.
John Emigh was brought to Masonic Light in La Grande Lodge No.
41, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Oregon, on July 2, 1920;
passed to the degree of a Fellowcraft Mason on January 14, 1921;
and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on March 11, 1921. On March 4, 1924 he affiliated
with Blue Mountain Lodge No. 13 at Walla Walla, where he was appointed Junior Steward in January
1927. He served as Worshipful Master of Blue Mountain Lodge No. 13 in 1931.
He first attended Grand Lodge in Tacoma in 1929 when Junior Warden of his Lodge. In recognition of
his active interest in Masonry he was appointed Junior Grand Deacon in 1931, Grand Marshal in 1933
and then from June, 1934 to June, 1937 he served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Masonic
Home at Zenith. To this position he devoted a tremendous amount of energy, bringing to the Home good
sound business influence, the same type of which has marked him an outstanding success in his own
private business. He was appointed Senior Grand Deacon in June 1937, was elected Junior Grand Warden
in 1938, and was successfully advanced in the line to the position of Grand Master in June 1941. During
his term as Grand Master he was made an honorary Past Grand Master of both the Grand Lodges of
Montana and Idaho.
In the middle of our Most Worshipful Brother’s year as Grand Master, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor.
The country being in a state of war presented a variety of problems to the Craft Lodges throughout the
United States, particularly those Lodges on the West Coast. Meetings were restricted, black-outs
continued for a considerable period, gas and tire rationing prevented travel. At the same time petitions for
the degrees were coming in at an unprecedented rate. Our Grand Master’s handling of the difficult
situations presented was masterful. Under his capable direction a program for serving Masons in the
Armed Services, stationed in Washington and Alaska, was developed which was much praised in Masonic
publications throughout the country.
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There came many requests for short cuts in the conferring of the degrees. Our Most Worshipful Grand
Master resisted the clamor; pointing out that “it was useless to get men into Masonry, unless we got
Masonry into the men”.
Most Worshipful Brother John Austin Emigh passed across the river that separates this world from the
next on March 30, 1971.
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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Matthew W. Hill: 1941-1942
Most Worshipful Brother Matthew W Hill was born on June 26,
I898, in Bozeman, Montana, the only child of Saxton and Mary
Elma (Noe) Hill. When the family moved to Lester, Washington,
in 1907, he attended a two-room school, later being graduated from
Stadium High School, Tacoma. Enjoying the mental exhilaration
of school and learning, his post-secondary education was at the
University of Washington. His record at the UW was extensive.
He was a member of the debating team, and Vice- President of the
Associated Students. He was made a member of the Oval Club and
Fir Tree, the upper class honorary societies; as well as being a
member of Delta Upsilon, Phi Alpha Delta, and a number of other
honorary fraternities. He graduated cum laude from the University
of Washington in 1917 with a Bachelors of Law degree. He would
receive his Juris Doctor from Seattle Pacific College.
It is said that our Most Worshipful Brother was one of those rare individuals who rose to the top or
leadership of every group with whom he was associated. He was awarded the University of Washington
Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1979; he was President of the University of Washington Alumni
Association; he was a member of several honor societies, including the Order of the Coif; he was a
Superior Court Judge. On January 13, 1947, he was appointed to serve on the State Supreme Court. He
was Chief Justice of the Court from January 1957 to January 1959. He would retire from the Court on
December 31, 1969.
Endowed with an inquisitive mind and a belief in the brotherhood of man, he was initiated as an Entered
Apprentice Mason on September 9, 1924. He passed to the degree of a Fellowcraft Mason on January 22,
1925, and was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Meison on April 25 of the same year in St.
John's Lodge No. 9. He served as Master of his Lodge in 1933.
Brother Hill served as Grand Orator in 1933-1934, and was elected Junior Grand Warden in 1937,
advancing each year until being elected Grand Master in 1940. After serving as Grand Master, he was
immediately appointed to the Jurisprudence Committee. During the following years, fifteen other Grand
Masters would appoint or reappoint him to this important committee, many times as Chairman.
Outside of the Blue Lodge, he was honored by Masonic affiliated groups with the Thirty-third Degree,
Scottish Rite, and membership in the Red Cross of Constantine by the Royal Arch. He was also a holder
of the Silver Beaver and the Silver Antelope from the Boy Scouts of America and was honored by many
other groups.
Most Worshipful Brother Matthew Hill was called from labor on February 28, 1989
P a g e | 181
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Charles P. Kirtland: 1939-1940
Most Worshipful Charles Phelps Kirtland was born in Chicago,
Illinois on March 16, 1895, the son of Charles Bushnell Kirtland
and Grace Kirtland. His early schooling was obtained in Chicago.
In 1909, the family moved from Chicago to New Westminster,
British Columbia, and here Charles attended high school and in
1915 graduated from Columbian College.
His business career was begun as an accountant in the New
Westminster Branch of the Merchants' Bank of Canada. In June of
1917 he entered the service of the United States Army, which ended
in December, 1918. Upon his discharge from service, he entered the
employ of the First National Bank of Bellingham, Washington,
where he remained for eight years. At the end of that time he became
cashier and manager of the bank at Skagway, Alaska. This
connection continued for three years and he was then elected vice-
president and manager of the Bank of Alaska at Wrangell. He remained there for eight years and was then
elected senior vice-president and manager of the Anchorage Branch of the same firm, all of these banks
being branches of the Bank of Alaska.
Brother Kirtland was active in many phases of life. During his residence at Wrangell he was twice elected
Mayor; in addition to which he served as president of the School Board and president of the Chamber of
Commerce and was also active in the American Legion. He was a director and officer in several business
concerns in southeastern Alaska and gained a wide acquaintanceship and standing as a business executive
throughout the territory.
His Masonic connection began in 1922 at Bellingham, where in Whatcom Lodge No. 151, he was raised
to the sublime the degree of Master Mason. From the start Brother Kirtland took an active interest in
Masonic work and became proficient in the ritual to such an extent that he was elected Junior Warden in
Whatcom Lodge No. 151 in 1925. It was during his term in this station that he moved to Alaska,
whereupon he dimitted to White Pass Lodge No. 113. Here his interest in Masonry manifested itself and
he was elected Junior Warden of White Pass Lodge No. 113 in 1927, being advanced and becoming Master
in 1930.
He became a regular attendant at Grand Lodge sessions and when the District Deputy Grand Master
system was adopted by the Grand Lodge of Washington, he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master
of District No. 3, which post he held for two years. In 1936 he was honored by election to the post of
Junior Grand Warden of Grand Lodge, being regularly chosen to a higher position each year and becoming
Grand Master in June, 1939. He would be the first member of an Alaskan Lodge to become Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge of Washington.
P a g e | 182
Additionally, our Most Worshipful Brother was also probably the first Grand Master ever to lay a
cornerstone for a Masonic Temple after the temple had been dedicated and in use. Robert Morris Lodge
No. 97 had moved from Mayfield to Silver Creek, in the timber country of eastern Lewis County. The
present temple was built largely by the labor of the members during the hard times of the middle and late
'thirties, at a time when there were many to say it could not be done. After the temple had been dedicated
in 1939, it occurred to the brethren that there had been no cornerstone laying ceremony.
Although they were told that it was too late to lay a cornerstone, they carried the matter to Most Worshipful
Brother Kirtland. He not only authorized the cornerstone laying, but came to Silver Creek with all of his
Grand Lodge officers and laid it on April 20, 1942; and no one present that day will ever forget the
ceremony or the heart-warming words of the Grand Master as he paid tribute to the spirit of those brethren
who, undaunted by depression and unemployment, had accomplished the seemingly impossible.
Following his year as Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Kirtland served as chairman of the
Committee on Grievance and Appeals until December, 1944, when he was appointed to the Finance
Committee. He rendered outstanding service on that very important committee until he was called to
higher duty.
Outside of the Blue Lodge, our Most Worshipful Brother was a member of the Eastern Star and a Past
Patron of Wrangell Chapter No. 12. Because no lodge existed in the area, he organized a Masonic Club at
Wrangell. He was a member of Anchorage Chapter No. 2 Royal Arch Masons of Anchorage, and of Alaska
Consistory No. 1 A. &. A. S. R., at Juneau, Alaska.
In his later years, our Past Grand Master had four great concerns:
Home: His children Elaine and Ronnie were going through high school and into the University, and he
had great pride in them and their accomplishments and in their charming and gracious mother.
Work: As manager of the Ballard Branch of the National Bank of Commerce, he was proud not only of
the development of modern banking facilities, but of the part the bank was playing in the growth of the
community.
Masonry: His concern was that, through its friendships and fellowships, its ideals and high purposes, there
might come true brotherhood.
Country: His was a genuine concern lest by apathy and indifference we permit precious liberties to slip
away from us; his was a flaming faith in a government of laws and not of men.
Most Worshipful Charles Phelps Kirtland finished his labors here on January 23, 1952, and entered into a
greater field of labor and of love in that Lodge which will remain open through the boundless ages of
eternity.
P a g e | 183
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ W. Gale Matthews: 1938-1939
Flashback Friday - The family of Most Worshipful Warren Gale
Matthews traces back its line across the nation to the eastern seaboard,
but he himself was born in Broken Bow, Nebraska on May 9, 1887, the
only son of Irving Weber Matthews and Arabella Carpenter Matthews.
The family moved to Waterville in 1890, where he and his three sisters
grew to maturity. There he received his education in the public schools
of Waterville, and for one year he attended the University of Washington,
intending later to enter the law school. His father's untimely death caused
him to return home to assume charge of the Douglas County Title &
Abstract Company which his father had established. Douglas County was
later divided, a part of which formed Grant County, prompting a move to
Ephrata and the establishment of the Grant County Title & Abstract
Company, and the eventual sale of the Waterville Office.
His personal supervision of this business interest was interrupted in 1918, when, for a time, he was
assigned to the Field Artillery Officers' Training Camp at Camp Zachary Taylor, near Louisville,
Kentucky. He is the first Grand Master of Masons in Washington to have worn a uniform during the World
War.
Gale (as he would be known) Matthews was made a Mason in Badger Mountain Lodge No. 57, on July 1,
1909; passed on July 15, 1909; and raised on August 5, 1909. After moving to Ephrata he affiliated with
Ephrata Lodge No. 167, and served as Master in 1916. Subsequently he served as Secretary for seventeen
years. Both duties were carried out with distinction and great progress was made under his capable
leadership.
Other organizations were aware of his capabilities and they too carried on their roles this man who was a
shining light. The Scottish Rite honored him as a 33rd Degree, he was a member of the York Rite and
Knights Templar, the Shrine in Spokane, Eastern Star, American Legion, Red Cross of Constantine, and
many others.
His ability was recognized in Grand Lodge and he served on the Board of Custodians during 1926. He
was appointed Grand Lecturer in 1934, and in 1935 he was elected Junior Grand Warden, He advanced
through the chairs of Grand Lodge and served this Grand Jurisdiction as Grand Master in 1938-1939.
Always active in the affairs of his community, he early became interested in the Columbia Basin
Reclamation Project. This project to irrigate large parts of the Columbia Basin in Eastern Washington
famously gave birth to Grand Coulee Dam, which opened in 1941. Matthews was one of three key
individuals who first advocated actively in favor of the project, and helped to secure its eventual
realization.
P a g e | 184
During his later years, although his health was failing, he never lost his sense of humor and sound
judgment. On December 7, 1960, the Supreme Grand Master called our Past Grand Master, Most
Worshipful Brother Warren Gale Matthews to his reward, whereby he might enjoy the Peace and Joy of
a well spent life, to bask in the reflected glory of his deeds here on earth.
P a g e | 185
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Frank L. Poole: 1937-1938
Most Worshipful Brother Franklin Lindsey Poole, the Seventy-fifth
Grand Master of Masons in Washington, was born on July 2, 1880,
the son of Mr. and Mrs. Franklin S. Poole, a pioneer family who
came to the then Territory of Washington in 1875. Frank was born
on what is now known as Third Avenue in the City of Seattle, where
now stands one of the large office buildings in that City.
Poole received his education in the Public Schools in Tacoma, and
after finishing, he worked for a time in his father's feed and
implement store in Tacoma. He then accepted a position with two
farm implement companies, traveling extensively throughout the
Northwest. Later he became associated with the Tacoma Milk
Distributors Association, serving in the capacity of Secretary-
Manager. In 1945 he accepted a position with the United States
Army at Fort Lewis as a Safety Engineer, serving in that capacity until he retired in 1959.
He first saw the light of Masonry in William P. Dougherty Lodge No. 224, being raised to the Sublime
Degree of Master Mason in 1926. He at once became intensely interested in Masonry, became active in
the work of the Lodge, serving in various stations, and was elected Worshipful Master in 1930.
In addition to his membership in William P. Dougherty Lodge, he was a dual member of Research Lodge
No. 281 of Seattle, as well as an honorary member of Terrestrial Lodge No. 228, of Eatonville, Riverside
Lodge No. 112 of Wenatchee, Tanana Lodge No. 162 of Fairbanks (Alaska), and of Daylight Lodge No.
232 of Seattle. He was also an honorary life member of Lodge Southern Cross No. 44, of Ancient Free
and Accepted Masons of British Columbia, and an Honorary Past Grand Master of Ancient Free and
Accepted Masons of Idaho. He was a member of the York Rite bodies Including the Knights Templar, of
the Scottish Rite bodies up to the 32nd degree, of the Grotto and of the Northwest Past Masters
Association.
His activities in Grand Lodge began when he was appointed a member of the Committee on Credentials.
In 1931 he served as Junior Grand Steward and again in 1932 as Senior Grand Deacon. His valuable
service to Grand Lodge was rewarded by his being elected Junior Grand Warden in 1934, being regularly
advanced until he was elected Grand Master in 1937.
When he became Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Poole had two major aims. First he desired to
effect the Masonic education of new members of the Fraternity, as well as of older ones who had failed to
obtain the knowledge to which they were entitled. He endeavored to place in the hands of the brethren
books and literature on Masonry. His work in this field was successful in bringing more light and
knowledge to the less informed. To him, an enlightened Mason became a better Mason.
P a g e | 186
His second aim was the rehabilitation of the Masonic Home. As Grand Master he effected many changes
and improvements for the betterment of the Home, not only with respect to its physical characteristics,
but also for the comfort and happiness of its members.
Recognizing his ability and devotion. Most Worshipful Brother Matthew W. Hill would appoint him a
member of the Committee on Endowment for the Masonic Home, and he served for a number of years as
Chairman of the Committee.
It is said that Most Worshipful Brother Frank Poole probably knew more Masons in Washington and
Alaska than any other member of the Fraternity. Since becoming active in Grand Lodge, he visited no less
than 183 of the 268 Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction. This figure does not include Lodges in district
meetings. At that time, no Grand Master of Washington had ever visited so many Lodges.
The final summons came at his home on February 20, 1960. His work done, his temple completed, the
memory of his good deeds remain.
P a g e | 187
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Ralph E. Tieje: 1936-1937
Dr. and Most Worshipful Brother Ralph Earl Tieje was born on
January 24, 1887, in Dayton, Ohio, to Henry A. Tieje, of German
descent, and Katherine (Bell) Tieje. He was educated in the public
schools of Dayton, and the University of Illinois, from which he
received his Bachelor’s degree in 1910, Master’s degree in 1912,
and Ph.D. in 1917.
He served Illinois University as assistant instructor in English from
1910-1912; he was instructor in English and Debate at Oklahoma
A. & M. College from 1912-1913; instructor in English and Debate
at Washington State College from 1913-1914; instructor in English
at his Alma Mater from 1914-1916, as well as a Fellow in English
at the same university from 1916-1917. A Shakespearean scholar
and actor, he became Head of the Department of Language and
Literature at the Eastern Washington College of Education in 1917,
and its President – the first to have a Ph.D. – in 1939, from which
position he retired in 1945.
Presently, the English Department at Eastern Washington University offers a scholarship in his name for
upcoming seniors and English majors.
After his retirement from Eastern, he taught at the New York State College at Champlain, and also at the
College of the Ozarks, in Arkansas. Later he spent 11 years in England.
Dr. Tieje came to his Masonic ideals and purposes, in part, through inheritance. His great grandfather,
John N. Bell and his grandfather, John H. Bell, were prominent in Masonic circles, as well as in political
and business circles in Montgomery County, Ohio.
He was Initiated, Passed and Raised in Temple Lodge No. 42, receiving his degree of Master Mason on
May 21st, 1921, and was installed as Master of Temple Lodge in 1926, afterwards serving as Secretary of
Temple Lodge from 1927 until June, 1936.
He served the Grand Lodge of Washington as Junior Grand Steward, 1926-27; Committee on Charity,
1929; Committee on Credentials, 1931; Junior Grand Warden, 1933; Senior Grand Warden, 1934; Deputy
Grand Master, 1935, and was installed as Grand Master in 1936.
It is said that his scholarly attainments were manifest in his presentation of the purposes and principles of
our Craft, in his profound understanding of Masonic philosophy. His thorough training in speech was
shown in his inspirational interpretations of the meanings and values of Masonic living, as his experience
as head of a department for twenty years in one of our State Colleges prepared him as a successful
administrator of the affairs of the Grand Lodge of Washington.
P a g e | 188
Dr. and Most Worshipful Brother Ralph Earl Tieje passed this Earth, September 11, 1971, after an
extended illness, at the age of 84 years, at Forest Grove, Oregon.
P a g e | 189
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Walter H. Steffey: 1935-1936
Walter Harrison Steffey was born in Jefferson County, Kansas,
October 6, 1888, and passed on to the Celestial Grand Lodge in
Seattle, Washington, February 19, 1972.
He attended the State College at Manhattan, Kansas, where he met
Miss Lillian Clemmons, who became his wife in 1911. She survives
him in their home in Seattle, where they celebrated their 60th
Wedding Anniversary on July 8, 1971.
From this union his son Hugh carries on Walter's great Masonic
record, which has never been excelled in the Grand Jurisdiction of
Washington.
M⸫W⸫ Walter had a most distinguished and exceedingly active
fraternal life. From the time he was Raised to the degree of a Master
Mason in University Lodge, No. 141, August 5, 1912, then becoming
Master of his Lodge in 1919 until the time his spirit ascended to its eternal reward of all good men, Brother
Steffey lived and acted according to Masonic teachings. He was aptly referred to by all who knew him as
"Mr. Mason".
He believed that no man was indispensable but to every man he had a word of encouragement and was
quick to compliment those who presented good and square work.
Walter was a great believer that truth was a Divine attribute and his oft-used expression of, "That is right",
carried with it great conviction.
His willingness to help and advise, only ff he were asked, made all who worked with him his lifelong
friends. This habit of giving advice only if he were asked made him the loved and respected Secretary of
University Lodge for many years and, as he continued to follow this policy when he became Grand
Secretary of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Washington, his circle of friends extended over
the entire State of Washington.
Not only was Walter well known and thought a great deal of by Masons in Washington, but as Chairman
of the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance in 1967-1968 his friendly influence was felt and appreciated
by Masons in Alaska.
He was a member of all the York Rite Bodies, becoming a Companion in University Chapter of Royal
Arch Masons in 1917, and he was elected High Priest of that Chapter in 1920. From this start in Royal
Arch, the Companions elevated him to the top when he became Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter
of Royal Arch Masons in 1936. This was the same year that he was completing a very successful year as
Grand Master.
P a g e | 190
Brother Walter had, in 1923, been greeted as a Select Master in Adoniram Council, No. 17, R. & S. M.,
had progressed to Illustrious Master in 1930 and then went on to be elected Grand Illustrious Master of
the Grand Council. He was also a Past Commander of University Commandery of Knights Templar. In
addition to his long service as Secretary of University Lodge, he also served for many years as Secretary
of University Chapter of Royal Arch and also as Secretary of University Commandery.
This most distinguished Mason was also very active in Scottish Rite and, for his good works in the Rite,
Walter was made a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason. In 1919 he had been initiated into Nile Temple of
the Shrine but never took an active part in that organization.
Brother Walter first attended Grand Lodge in 1924 and, in 1935-1936, he served as Grand Master of all
Masons in Washington and Alaska. During his term as Grand Master, M⸫W⸫ Steffey initiated the most
of his many contributions to Masons in this Grand Jurisdiction when he had created the Masonic Home
Endowment Fund. This fund started with $200.00 and has grown to several million dollars, the interest
from which pays for a large proportion of the operation of the Home, Washington Masonry's most
important contribution to Masonic benevolence. This Endowment Fund is a living monument to the
farsightedness of M.'.W.". Brother Walter Steffey, and a great financial saving to every Mason in this
Grand Jurisdiction. While his Masonic activities took a great deal of his time. Brother Walter carried on
his vocation in electrical work. After several years with Seattle City Light, he went into electrical
contracting, in which work he was earning his living until his retirement.
Brother Walter never neglected his civic duty and, as he was named after Benjamin Harrison, a noted
Republican President, his entire political activities were spent in support of Republican candidates.
Brother Walter also took an active part in many community activities, the last of which when he was
appointed by Mayor Gordon Clinton to be on the Board of Theatre Supervisors. He was a humble man
who had strong convictions as to what a man's life should be, and he believed that what the world needed
most was a return to decency of conduct, respect for hard work, law and order. Especially did he believe
in the equality of man before the law and equal economic opportunity for all. Because of his study and
many talks on Negro Masonry, Prince Hall Masons gave him a recognition banquet and presented him
with an award. This award came because Brother Walter had appeared before the State Supreme Court as
a witness in a trial which decreed that Prince Hall Masonry was the only legal Negro Lodge in Washington.
The Grand Chaplain of 1967-1968, Bro. Louis V. Martin, expressed the philosophy that was held by
M⸫W⸫ Steffey.
In his remarks before Grand Lodge in 1968, Rev. Martin said this, "Life is by no means all sunshine. We
are in a world where the Lights go out; where friends and loved ones are constantly being called to death's
great procession, and where we, too, in a few days or months, or years, must surrender to God the Life
which He has given. God made a rainbow of promise and hope shine brightly in the sky as a token of His
Covenant." Masonry is a life dedicated to help keep that light burning for all people everywhere, to help
protect their liberty and freedom, to keep the rainbow of promise and hope alive and shining brightly for
all humanity."
M⸫W⸫ Walter H. Steffey was one of those great souls who kept alive that hope for all of us by his devoted
work in Freemasonry.
P a g e | 191
The wonder of Walter Steffey was not alone his almost 60 years of Masonic faith and dedication, but that
he stood ever ready to heed the call of the Craft and to help those who asked for his help. I am one who
was most grateful for his help in all the high positions in Masonry that I have been given the honor of
holding.
Our eternal hope was expressed in the epitaph that Benjamin Franklin wrote for his own tombstone: "The
body of Benjamin Franklin, printer, Uke the cover of an old book, its contents torn and stripped of its
lettering and gilding, lies herein, food for worms; but the work shall not be lost, for it would, as he believed,
appear once more in a more elegant edition, revised and corrected by the Author."
This is how Walter believed and as all of us must believe with our faith in the teachings of Masonry. For
it is written at the end of the chapter, with our eyes full of hope and faith, "To be continued".
It was low twelve for Freemasonry in Washington when, on February 19, 1972, M⸫W⸫ Walter left to
continue his good works in another sphere. His Brethren grieve at their loss and extend sincere fraternal
love to his faithful and loving wife Lillian and W⸫ Hugh Steffey and to the other members of Walter's
family. We pray for them to have faith as we extend our sympathy.
We Masons in this Grand Jurisdiction will greatly miss Brother Walter. Truly, we shall cherish his memory
in our hearts.
The subject of this sketch, M⸫W⸫ Walter Harrison Steffey, was born on a farm near Ozawkie, Jefferson
County, Kansas, October 6. 1888, the son of Silas H. and Carrie A. (Snapp) Steffey. His father was born
in Pennsylvania and his mother in Illinois. His parents settled on a farm in Kansas at the close of the Civil
War. Here Walter, with one sister and his parents, spent his boyhood days. He attended the grade schools
of Ozawkie, and in the fall of 1908, he entered the State College at Manhattan, Kansas, where he attended
for several years. It was here that he met Miss Lillian Clemmons, who was destined to become his wife.
In the spring of 1909, he first came to Seattle and was employed by the Seattle-Tacoma Power Company,
but in the fall, he returned again to his college at Manhattan, Kansas. Having had a taste of the Pacific
Northwest, he again came back to the Puget Sound district in 1911, and re-entered the employ of the
Seattle-Tacoma Power Company, which was afterwards absorbed by the Puget Sound Traction Light &
Power Company, in the employ of which he remained until April, 1919, when he entered upon his own
business as an electrical contractor, in which business he has continued, except for a period of four years,
from 1920 to 1924, when he was in the employ of the Standard Oil Company at Point Wells in King
County, Washington.
After M⸫W⸫ Steffey had come west the second time and secured employment, he sent for his fiancée
and, on July 8, 1911, in Seattle, he inter-married with Miss Clemmons, who is a descendant of the
Benjamin Culver family of New York of Revolutionary fame. Of this marriage three children were born,
Hugh, in 1915, Lawrence, in 1917, and Earl, in 1922. Earl lost his life accidentally by drowning on July
27, 1932.
M⸫W⸫ Steffey has had an exceedingly active fraternal life. He petitioned University Lodge, No. 141, F.
& A. M., on April 1, 1912, was elected May 6, 1912, initiated June 3, 1912, passed July 1, 1912, and
raised August 5, 1912. In 1913, he served on the posting committee. In 1914, he was appointed Junior
Steward, and served the following year as Junior Deacon. In 1916, he was elected Junior Warden, and was
P a g e | 192
regularly advanced thereafter, serving his Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1919. At the end of his term as
Worshipful Master, he was elected Secretary of his Lodge, in which capacity he still serves.
His first attendance upon the Grand Lodge was in 1924, and in 1926, he was appointed Senior Grand
Deacon. He was elected Junior Grand Warden in 1932, and was thereafter regularly advanced until
installed as Grand Master in 1935.
He became a member of University Chapter, No. 32, R. A. M., in 1917, and served as its High Priest in
1920. He was installed as Secretary of his Chapter in 1924, and has since continued in that capacity. In
1924, he was appointed Grand Steward in the Grand Chapter, and was thereafter regularly advanced until,
in May, 1986, he was elected and installed Grand High Priest, in which capacity he is now serving.
He was greeted as a Select Master in Adoniram Council, No. 17, R. & S. M., on the 17th day of November,
1923. He served in various capacities in the Council, and was elevated to the position of Illustrious Master
in 1930. In May, 1934, he was appointed Grand Sentinel in the Grand Council and he is now serving as
Grand Conductor of Council.
He became a member of University Commandery, No. 21, on February 13, 1923.
He was initiated in Nile Temple, Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, on November 17,
1919.
He was initiated in University Chapter, No. 83, O. E. S., during the year, 1919, and afterwards dimitted to
Ravenna Chapter, No. 189, of which he served as the first Worthy Patron, in 1922.
He received the degrees in the Lodge of Perfection, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, during the year, 1914,
and completed these degrees to the 32nd degree in 1918. He has served as Wise Master of the Rose Croix
and Commander-in-Chief of the Consistory. In 1927, he was accorded the rank and honor of Knight
Commander of the Court of Honor, and was coroneted 33rd degree Inspector-General honorary in 1935.
He holds honorary membership in Greenwood Lodge, No. 253, F. & A. M., and Rainier Chapter, No. 52,
R. A. M.
M⸫W⸫ Steffey's hobby is outdoor life, principally fishing and hunting.
During his fraternal service, M⸫W⸫ Steffey has endeared himself to the Craft, not only by the zeal that
has characterized his activities, but also, and more especially, by the congeniality and good fellowship
that he has exhibited toward all the brethren. His year as Grand Master might well be termed as "the era
of good feeling," for it was marked by the most friendly, fraternal relationship to all with whom he came
in contact.
P a g e | 193
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ Loomis Baldrey: 1934-1935
Most Worshipful Brother Alfred Abiel Loomis Baldrey was born in
Camden, New Jersey on May 19, 1882. He received his early
education in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Fulton, New York,
graduating from Syracuse (New York) High School in 1900 and from
the Classical School of Syracuse in 1901. He received a Bachelor of
Philosophy from Syracuse University in 1904, and a Bachelor of
Laws from Syracuse Law College in 1906, graduating as Salutatorian
of his class. He came to Bellingham in 1908 and established himself
in the practice of law and he followed this profession up to the time
of his death on August 8, 1954.
His Masonic history is a long one and his many connections fully
demonstrate that Masonry was his chief love. Our Most Worshipful
Brother was raised in Hiram Lodge No. 144 of Fulton, New York on
July 27, 1906. In 1908 shortly after arriving in Bellingham he
affiliated with Whatcom Lodge No. 151 and became its Master in
1920. In June 1936 he became a Charter Member and first Junior
Warden of Walter F. Meier Lodge of Research No. 281 advancing in regular order to become its
Worshipful Master. He was a Charter Member of Pierre B. Cornwall Lodge No. 283, and an Honorary
Member of Bellingham Bay Lodge No. 44, Fairhaven Lodge No. 73, Tanana Lodge No. 162 of Fairbanks,
Alaska.
He was a member of all the various bodies connected with both the York Rite and Scottish Rite and at the
time of his death was a Knight of the York Grand Cross and Eminent Warder of Evergreen State Priory.
rd
In the Scottish Rite he was a Knight Commander of the Court of Honour and was coroneted 33 Degree
of that Rite in October 1953. He was also a member of the Royal Order of Scotland with membership in
the Provincial Grand Lodge of the Provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. He also held
membership in Maple Leaf Chapter, O.E.S., No. 58, serving as its Worthy Patron in 1928. He served as
Grand Chaplain of the Grand Chapter O.E.S. in 1939-1940. Likewise he was a member of Bellingham
Court No. 25, Order of Amaranth and served as its first Royal Patron in 1928, and was Grand Royal Patron
of the Grand Court of Washington in 1931-1932. He was also a member of Angora Grotto in Seattle.
Brother Baldrey was appointed Grand Orator in 1923, and Junior Grand Deacon in 1926. In 1931 he was
elected Junior Grand Warden and from that position he progressed through the elective stations to become
Grand Master in 1934. But that was not the end of the story for he continued with all his heart and soul to
endeavor to advance the cause of Freemasonry and only death ceased his activities in this respect.
Perhaps one of his major accomplishments was the part he played in the adoption of the District Deputy
system of the Grand Lodge, and his work as Committee on Fraternal Correspondence was outstanding.
P a g e | 194
He served Grand Lodge in many other capacities, as a member of the Committee on Jurisprudence and as
a member of the Committee on Grievance and Appeals, as well as rendering valuable service in a legal
way in connection with the Masonic Review Digest Case which ended happily in favor of our Grand
Lodge.
With one giving so much of his time and energy to Masonry it would not have been surprising if that
would have completed the story of his life's work but such was not the case. He was very civic-minded
and contributed liberally of his time and talents to the affairs of his community. For many years he was a
Trustee of The Old Settlers Association of Whatcom County. He was Secretary of the Bellingham
Chamber of Commerce from 1909 to 1911 and served as its President, serving two terms as such, 1950
and 1951. He was Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney from 1918 to 1923. He was elected President
of the Washington State Prosecuting Attorneys' Association in 1931. He was President of the Kiwanis
Club of Bellingham in 1942 and was Lieutenant Governor of the Washington-British Columbia Division
of Kiwanis International from 1947 to 1948. Brother Loomis was a devout and faithful member of St.
Paul's Episcopal Church of Bellingham, Washington.
P a g e | 195
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ John I. Preissner: 1933-1934
Most Worshipful John I. Preissner was born in Bloomfield,
Wisconsin on June 28, 1887. He came with his parents to
Snohomish County in 1898, where he attended and graduated
from high school. He then entered Washington State College
and graduated in 1912 with a degree in Mining Engineering.
After graduation he followed his profession in the mines of
Idaho until 1914. The following nine years he was engaged in
his profession in British Columbia, making a distinct success
in his chosen work. In December 1923, the family came to
Yakima, where he left his profession and went into partnership
with Frank Stubbs in the Stubbs Fruit & Storage Company of
Yakima.
Our good Brother was made a Master Mason in Mt. Adams
Lodge No. 227, in 1925. Recognizing his worth, his brethren
made him Junior Deacon in 1926. Moving rapidly forward, he
served as Worshipful Master in 1928. In June 1930, he was elected Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden
by our Grand Lodge, serving the successive chairs in successive years and being elected as Most
Worshipful Grand Master in June 1933.
In October 1944 following the passing of the Grand Secretary M⸫W⸫ Horace W Tyler, then Grand Master
Ford Q Elvidge called upon our Most Worshipful Brother to accept the vacated office. In his necrology
M⸫W⸫ Brother Elvidge said this of M⸫W⸫ Brother Preissner:
“Of all the things I did or did not do during my term as Grand Master, that which gave me the most pride
and satisfaction was my appointment of Brother Preissner as Grand Secretary. He dedicated himself to his
task. Twice he refused to accept increases in salary. His work was exemplary and his service was without
criticism. By reason of his experience and background, and his tenderness, kindness and patience, he
endeared himself to all Secretaries in the Jurisdiction, as well as to the brethren generally. When he retired
in 1960, he was elected Grand Secretary Emeritus.”
Following his tenure as Grand Secretary, our Most Worshipful Brother was appointed to serve on the
Finance Committee.
Beyond the Blue Lodge, M⸫W⸫ Brother Preisner was a Past Worthy Grand Patron of the Eastern Star.
He was a 33° Inspector General, Honorary, of the Yakima Bodies of the Scottish Rite, Southern
Jurisdiction of America. He was a member of all of the York Rite Bodies in Yakima, a Past Sovereign of
St. Alban Chapter of the Red Cross of Constantine, a member of the Royal Order of Scotland and a Noble
of Afifi Temple of the Shrine of North America. He received international recognition by being elected
P a g e | 196
President of the Conference of Grand Secretaries of North America in 1959.
This illustrious brother departed this life on October 7, 1963.
P a g e | 197
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ John M. Roberts: 1932-1933
John Mechin Roberts was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on
February 28, 1877. Four years later the family home was shifted
to Tacoma, Washington, where he lived for 77 years.
He was educated in the Public Schools of Tacoma, and his ability
with figures soon led him to a position of responsibility in thee
accountant's office of the Northern Pacific Railway plant in South
Tacoma, where he stayed for twelve years.
His desire for rendering service prompted him to seek Masonic
Light in Clover Lodge, No. 91, F. & A. M., of Tacoma, and he
was Initiated an Entered Apprentice November 20th, 1899,
Passed to the degree of a Fellowcraft December 18th, 1899, and
Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason January 29th,
1900.
On September 22nd, 1903, he was happily married to Ida Thedora Solwold, and the home was blessed
with a splendid family of three boys and one daughter to form a loving and happy circle.
Many fraternities have been benefited by having him as a member, but after an apprenticeship in Clover
Lodge, No. 91, he was elected to serve as its Worshipful Master for the year 1912, and thereby also became
a member of the Grand Lodge. His ability was soon recognized, and during the years 1916, 1917, 1918,
and 1921 to 1928, inclusive, he was appointed to and served assiduously on the Finance Committee of
this Grand Body. In June, 1929, he was elected to the office of Junior Grand Warden, and was advanced
in successive sessions to the exalted leadership as Grand Master in June, 1932.
It is well to remember that this was a time of The Great Depression. The Grand Lodge severely curtailed
the funds of the Grand Master and his office. Brother Roberts was very reluctant to assume the office both
from the standpoint of time and finances. With the will of the Craft foremost in his heart & mind, without
complaint or confiding in anyone, at great personal sacrifice he fully performed all the duties of the office.
In addition to his financial acumen, his legacy to our Grand Lodge was his recommendation of the system
of District Deputies of the Grand Master be reestablished – a system that has benefited Washington
brethren.
He is an appreciated member of the Scottish Rite Bodies, having accepted the 32nd degree June 18th,
1920; of Keystone Chapter No. 7, Royal Arch Masons; Tacoma Council, No. 1, Royal and Select Masters;
P a g e | 198
Cedar Chapter, No. 173, O. E. S., and Afifi Temple A. A. O. N. M. S.; all of Tacoma.
Brother Roberts is a deep student of municipal accounting and finances, having been the City Controller
for eight years, 1916-1924, and then after a short period with the State of Washington in an accounting
capacity, returned to the service of the City of Tacoma, where his knowledge and experience in municipal
financing was put to great use until his retirement in 1942.
Most Worshipful Brother Joh Mechin Roberts was called to refreshment on October 22, 1968.
P a g e | 199
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