It is my sad duty to report the passing of DSA Brother John W. Evans. Brother Evans put down his heavy Earthy working tools of life after 63 years as a Mason.
John W. Evans 1927 – December 27, 2024
Today, we gather in solemn remembrance of our dear Brother, John W. Evans. For 63 years, Brother Evans embodied the principles of Freemasonry, living a life of integrity, service, and unwavering commitment to our craft. His presence among us was a guiding light, and his contributions will be felt for generations to come.
As a long-serving Trustee, Brother Evans ensured the financial stability of our Lodge, always making sound decisions for our investments. His dedication went beyond mere stewardship—when the need arose, he did not hesitate to give of himself. Many may not have known, but it was Brother Evans who personally paid to replace half of the Lodge’s roof, a testament to his quiet generosity and steadfast belief in our Brotherhood.
But perhaps one of his most cherished contributions was his tradition of hosting Old Timers’ Night at his barn. There, Masons from New York and Canada would gather, not just to share a meal, but to share in the true spirit of Fellowship. Laughter, stories, and Brotherhood filled those nights, strengthening the bonds between us and reminding us why we walk this path together. It was in those moments that Brother Evans showed us what Masonry truly means—not just in words, but in actions.
Brother Evans lived a life of service, not for recognition, but because it was simply who he was. His legacy is not just in the work he did, but in the countless lives he touched. While his seat among us is now empty, his spirit will forever remain a part of our Lodge, our Brotherhood, and our hearts.
Farewell, dear Brother. May the Great Architect welcome you into His eternal Lodge above. Until we meet again.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Brother Andy, your memory lives on in our hearts.
Our Brother was Initiated as an Entered Apprentice on September 22, 1960. Passed to Fellowcraft on February 9, 1961, and Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on May 18, 1961. Our Brother was Raised to the Celestial Lodge in the sky on December 27, 2024, at the age of 96 and a Mason for 63 years. Our Brother worked the quarry for many years and leaves behind a great legacy. Thank you Brother for all of your contributions to Masonry and to the betterment of humanity. You can rest knowing your good works will live on for years to come.
Please join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to the family of Brother Egressy in this difficult time.
“Well done thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord” Amen.
It is my sad duty to report the passing of Brother Carlton Harry Baker. Brother Baker put down his heavy Earthy working tools of life after 66 years as a Mason.
Carlton Harry Baker April 23, 1932 – September 6, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brother Carlton Harry Baker on September 6, 2023, in the comforting care of Hospice, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He departed this world surrounded by the loving embrace of his cherished children and other close family members.
Brother Carl was a remarkable soul whose presence enriched the lives of all fortunate enough to know him. He possessed a boundless spirit, living his life to the fullest and spreading warmth wherever he went. To encounter Carl was to be touched by his special brand of magic. He possessed a wealth of knowledge that seemed limitless, offering insights on topics ranging from aviation to finance and beyond.
In his journey through life, Brother Baker was preceded in death by his parents, Brother Gordon and Dorothy Carr Baker, who imparted to him the values of diligence, respect for others, gratitude for life’s blessings, a commitment to community service, and an unwavering dedication to family.
He was also preceded by his beloved siblings, David, Doug, and Stella. From them, he learned the arts of self-preservation and negotiation, along with the invaluable lessons of faith and humor as guiding lights through life’s challenges.
Brother Carl was a devoted husband, having shared his life with Shirley Winegar Baker and Betty Rahill Baker, both of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his brother Kirk, his children Ron Winegar (Mary), Tom Winegar (Lyn), Bonnie Baker, and son David Baker, along with four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a multitude of Rahill relatives too numerous to tally.
In lieu of a formal memorial service, Brother Carl’s final wish was for all who read these words to raise a glass in his honor, embrace those near to them, and reconnect with long-lost friends or family members. Let us celebrate his life by spreading joy, love, and connection, just as he did during his time with us.
A private interment will take place in Elma, New York at a later date.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Brother Carl, your memory lives on in our hearts.
Our Brother was Initiated as an Entered Apprentice on February 12, 1957. Passed to Fellowcraft on March 23, 1957, and Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on June 1, 1957. Our Brother was Raised to the Celestial Lodge in the sky on September 6, 2023, at the age of 90 and a Mason for 66 years. Our Brother worked the quarry for many years and leaves behind a great legacy. Thank you Brother for all of your contributions to Masonry and to the betterment of humanity. You can rest knowing your good works will live on for years to come.
Please join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to the family of Brother Baker in this difficult time.
“Well done thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord” Amen.
On the evening of March 14th, we were honored to welcome the DDGM to our Lodge, and it proved to be an enriching experience, brimming with stimulating conversation. Our discussions ranged from the origins of St. Patrick’s Day to the intricate nuances of the Masonic Ritual, and we were able to uncover several obscure but fascinating facts about Freemasonry. Adding to the evening’s festivities, WB Andruczyk prepared a delectable meal of corned beef and cabbage that tantalized the senses and brought everyone together in appreciation.
This occasion was a true embodiment of the tenets of Fellowship and learning that underpin our Masonic community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have shared it together. It is through such gatherings that we can broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of not only each other but also of the world around us, and we look forward to future opportunities to engage in similar exchanges of ideas and knowledge.
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