Todd Paterek

Remembering Brother Maurice T. Janesczko

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  • Born: July 26, 1938
  • Initiated: December 5, 2002
  • Passed: March 29, 2023
  • Raised: March 29, 2023
  • Departed: July 25, 2026

It is my sad duty to report the passing of Brother Maurice T. Janesczko. Brother Janesczko put down his heavy earthly working tools of life after 23 years as a Mason.

Blazing Star Lodge #694 honors the life of Brother Maurice Janeczko, who passed away on July 25, 2026, at the age of 87. Brother Maurie was a devoted Mason whose years of service left a lasting mark on our Lodge and the concordant bodies he so faithfully supported.

A man of service and dedication, Maurice was proud to have served with the United States Army National Guard and the NYS National Guard. His commitment to community shone through in his roles as a member of the Ismailia Shrine and as a former Erie County Deputy Sheriff. Maurice’s passions were as varied as they were profound, whether it was the thrill of a motorcycle ride, the quiet pursuit of a fishing line, or his fascination with shortwave radios and collecting his treasures and tools.
As a 32nd Degree Mason and a Chaplain within many Masonic organizations, including Blazing Star Lodge, Maurice embodied the values of Fraternity and charity.

Sabres Night at Blazing Star Lodge

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At the April 14, 2026, meeting, Blazing Star Lodge leaned into something a little different. The decision was made to embrace the excitement of hockey season and host a Sabres-themed evening, and it worked.

Brothers came dressed in Buffalo Sabres jerseys, bringing a visible sense of unity and hometown pride into the Lodge. It changed the tone in a good way, still respectful, but more relaxed and engaging. WB Breth took things a step further with an impressive top hat that stood out immediately and added some character to the night.

Moments like this matter. They build connections in a way that formal meetings alone cannot. It is a reminder that while the work of the Lodge is serious, the relationships behind it should be strong and enjoyable.

Sabres night was a simple idea, but it brought energy into the room and gave everyone something to rally around. That is worth repeating.

The Buffalo Sabres are enjoying a historic resurgence in the 2025–26 NHL season, finishing at the top of the Atlantic Division with an impressive 50–23–9 record. Amassing 109 points, the Sabres clinched their first division title since 2010 and ended a long-standing playoff drought in dominant fashion. Under head coach Lindy Ruff, the team showcased a potent offense, led by Tage Thompson’s 40 goals, ranking as the second-best team in the Eastern Conference overall. As they head into the postseason, the Sabres are set to hold home-ice advantage in the first round against the Boston Bruins, marking the long-awaited return of playoff hockey to KeyBank Center.

Let’s Go Buffalo!

Remembering Brother George B. Sleeper

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  • Born: April 21, 1943
  • Initiated: October 8, 1974
  • Passed: November 12, 1974
  • Raised: November 26, 1974
  • Departed: March 22, 2026

It is my sad duty to report the passing of Worshipful Brother George B. Sleeper. Brother Sleeper put down his heavy earthly working tools of life after 51 years as a Mason.

Blazing Star Lodge #694 honors the life of Brother George B. Sleeper, who passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 82. Brother George was a devoted Mason whose years of service left a lasting mark on our Lodge and the York Rite bodies he so faithfully supported.

He served as Past Master of Blazing Star Lodge #694, providing steady leadership and guidance. His commitment extended through the York Rite, where he served as Past High Priest of Royal Arch Chapter #282, Past Master of Hamburg Council Royal and Select Masters, and Past Commander of Tancred Commandery, Knights Templar. In recognition of his dedication, he was awarded the Knight of the York Cross of Honour, a distinction that reflects sustained service and leadership.

Freemasonry was an important part of his life, but it was not the only place where he gave his time. Brother George served his country in the United States Navy, built a long career with IBM and later roles with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Deloitte, and remained active in his community. He served as a Village Trustee in East Aurora, mentored young men as an Assistant Scout Master, and was a lifelong member and leader at the First Presbyterian Church of East Aurora.

At the center of it all was his family. He shared more than sixty years of marriage with his wife, Barbara, and took great pride in his children and grandchildren.

Brother George lived the values we speak about. He served where he was needed, led when called upon, and remained committed to his obligations throughout his life. His example will not be forgotten.