Lloyd "Red" Hall - Olive Branch Lodge

DANVILLE - Lloyd E. "Red" Hall, age 95, of Danville, passed away on December 30, 2009, at the Veterans Affairs Illiana Health Care System in Danville.
He was born March 18, 1914, in Georgetown, the son of Stanley A. and Ruth Grace (Clark) Hall. Lloyd married Laura Jeanette Myers on Nov. 5, 1938, in Danville. She preceded him in death on June 6, 2002.
He is survived by his son, Charles C. (Kim) Hall of Danville; his daughter, Peggy (Jay) Carter of Ocala, Fla.; one sister, Annabelle Walker of Indianapolis, Ind.; five grandchildren, Michael J. (Jessica) Carter of Deltona, Fla., Jayne Ann Carter of Ocala, Fla., Rachel C. (Dustin Howes) Hall of Baton Rouge, La., Sarah C. (Christopher Harpst) Hall of Champaign and Daniel C. Hall of Chapel Hill, N.C.; and three great-grandchildren, Jay H. Carter, Jacob and Jayda Fantauzzi, all of Deltona, Fla.
Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and two brothers, Stan and Harold Hall.
Lloyd served in the United States Navy during World War II. When he returned he started working at the Danville Post Office. He retired from the Post Office in January of 1972 with the title of assistant postmaster.
After retirement, Lloyd and his wife spent the next 25 years traveling. Lloyd enjoyed spending his winters with his wife at Llano Grande Lake Park in Mercedes, Texas.
He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Illini fan.
Lloyd enjoyed golfing and loved following his grandchildren in their many sports and other activities. He was a member of Olive Branch Masonic Lodge 38 in Danville, the Ansar Shrine, York Rites, and a 33rd-degree Mason with the Valley of Danville Scottish Rite. Lloyd was also a member of the Elks, Boy Scouts, NARFE, United Commercial Travelers, and the St. James United Methodist Church of Danville.
A private family service will be held for Lloyd Hall at Sunset Funeral Home in Danville. Burial will take place beside his wife at Spring Hill Cemetery in Danville.
Memorial donations may be made in Lloyd's name to the St. James United Methodist Church.
Email condolences can be sent to the family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Larry Brown - Western Star Lodge

URBANA - Larry O. Brown, 68, of Urbana died at 4:50 p.m. Monday, Dec. 28, 2009, at home.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana, the Rev. Richard Gregory officiating. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Masonic services will be held at 6:45 p.m. Friday at the funeral home by Western Star Lodge 240 A.F. & A.M.

Mr. Brown was born on July 24, 1941, in Danville, the son of Carl Omar and Hazel Leona Myers Brown. He married Judith Stout in Urbana and she died on June 4, 1995. He then married Joyce Ann Clayorn on Aug. 6, 2000, in Hoopeston. She survives.

Other survivors include three daughters, Angel Brown Reiterman of Rantoul, Angela Durbin of Westville and Michelle Cloyd of Danville; three sons, Aaron Cook of Mililani, Hawaii, Mike Colleen of Hoopeston and Gary Brown of Texas; two sisters; four brothers; and nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers.

Mr. Brown was a retired supervisor of maintenance at the U of I.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars.

Mr. Brown was a member of the Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston where he was the lead singer. He also was a member of Western Star Lodge 240 A.F. & A.M., A.A.S.R. Valley of Danville, Shriner, VFW 5520 and a board member of the Illinois Country Music Association.

He was a member of the Country Gentleman Band in the 80's, he was a awarded the Gospel Singer of the Year in 2008 by the ICMA, North American Country Music Gospel Entertainer of the Year 2008 and Song Writer of the Year.

Mr. Brown was a Cubs fan, loved his grandchildren and loved playing the guitar.

He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.


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Jerry Parsons - Oregon Lodge

Gerald “Jerry” Wendell Parsons

Commercial-News

Gerald “Jerry” Wendell Parsons, 91, of Bloomington, Ill., died at 4:08 p.m. Dec. 25, 2009, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, in Bloomington.

Gerald was born May 15, 1918, in Sheldon, N.D. to James C. Parsons and Clara Breaw Parsons. His first marriage was to Marion Tilton. He married Mary Louise McCord on Dec. 15, 1951, in Berwyn, Ill. She preceded him on April 12, 1999. He married Ruth Marian Snook-McGath on Aug. 19, 2000, in Bloomington.

He is survived by his children, Mary Jo Drews of Bloomington, Penny (Jerry) Meier of Albany, Ill., and Deborah Walters of Terre Haute, Ind.; his grandchildren, Joseph Drews (currently serving our country in Iraq), Chuck Drews of Mount Vernon, Ill., Michael Drews of Decatur, Ill., Adrienne Walters Hutson (Kyle) of Carbondale, Ill., Zachary Walters of Terre Haute, Ind., Jason Meier of Indianapolis and Erick Meier of Springfield, Mo.; his great-grandchildren, Evangeline Hutson, Jonah Meier, Alexis Meier, Jackson Meier, Evan Meier, Lucas Meier and Isaac Meier, Mackenzie Raycraft. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, William Howard Parsons in January 2008.

Jerry was a longtime member of the Wesley United Methodist Church, Bloomington. He was a charter member and past president of the Golden K Kiwanis of Bloomington and he received the George S. Hixson Fellow Award from Kiwanis International in 1997. He also was a member of the Lions Club and a master Mason for 60 years of Oregon Lodge No. 420 of the State of Illinois. He also belonged to the Scottish Rite of Danville, Ill., for 45 years.

Jerry served in the Army Air Corps as a sergeant from 1943-1946, during WWII and was stationed in Okinawa. He graduated from Rochelle High School in Rochelle, Ill., in 1936 and attended Scovill Business College, in Sterling, Ill., for two years. He worked at FS for 42 years starting out in Oregon, Ill., as a bookkeeper. He was promoted to office manager in Belvedere, Ill., and in 1954 he moved to Danville, where he was office manager for Vermilion County. In 1978, he moved to Bloomington, where he continued working for FS in computer services. He retired in 1983.

Jerry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle. He had many friends and was always looking for ways to help others. Jerry taught Sunday school for many years. He was a math whiz, a die-hard Cubs, Fighting Illini and Bears fan. Jerry put his family first and was so proud of his grandchildren.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, at Wesley United Methodist Church, in Bloomington. Interment will be at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, in Bloomington with military honors by Carl S. Martin, Post 635 and Lewis E. Davis post 56, honor guard, Bloomington-Normal, Ill., American Legion. Rev. Vaughn Hoffman will officiate. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington. Memorials to Wesley United Methodist Church, Bloomington or to The Humane Society of Central Illinois. Arrangements are being handled by Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington.

Don Doran - Potomac Lodge

Donald Doran


Commercial-News

Donald Doran, 75, of Potomac, died at 11.40 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.

Don left this world after a courageous battle with cancer with his loving wife at his side.

Don was born May 10, 1934, in Paxton, the only child of Harry and June Weiser Doran. He married Margaret Howell on March 6, 1955, at the No. 10 Church of Christ. She survives.

He also is survived by nieces and nephews, Susan (Jason) Jefferson of Royal, Scott (Melinda) Willard of rural Armstrong, Jeff (Jayne) Willard of Potomac, Captain Barry (Mindy) Willard of Bonaire, Ga., Harlan (Becki) Clemmons of Onowa, Iowa, Marvin (Kim) Clemmons of Fisher and several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews. Don leaves behind a beloved four-legged friend “Sandy Sue.” He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Mark Clemmons.

Don was a member of the Potomac Church of Christ, Potomac Masonic Lodge, Potomac American Legion, Vermilion Fishing Club, was a 50-year member of the Bluegrass Fire Dept., initial founder and coordinator of Middlefork Ambulance Service and currently served on the Bluegrass Fire Protection and Middlefork Ambulance Board.

He also served on the Potomac Village Board and was Middlefork Twp. Supervisor.

Don graduated from Potomac High School and farmed all his life until his retirement in 1993. Through Parkland College, he earned his EMT, ERT and CPR instructor certifications. He served in the United States Army from 1956-1962. He enjoyed camping, traveling, going on cruise’s, playing cards, needlework, crop watching and being around his family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at Wolfe Funeral Home in Potomac, Pastor Frank Hoss to officiate. Burial will be at Potomac Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Masonic service at 7 p.m. by the Potomac Masonic Lodge Memorials to donor’s choice.

GAO Grotto Clowns have Fun

Clowns spread holiday cheer

BY MARY WICOFF - Danville Commercial News December 24, 2009

DANVILLE — Clowns do more than cavort in circuses and prance in parades. In Danville, the Gao Grotto’s clown unit also spreads holiday cheer in nursing homes each December.

Dressed in bright costumes and cheerful makeup, the clowns distributed dozens of Beanie Babies to senior citizens earlier this month.

“We try to keep people happy,” said Don Knee, president of the clown group and also a past monarch of the Grotto.

The group chose two nursing homes at random — this year, Colonial Manor and Hawthorne Inn — and distributed the stuffed animals, which were donated by Gao Grotto members and others.

Making a holiday appearance at the nursing homes is just one example of the group’s community outreach efforts. The clowns also make balloon animals at schools, march in parades, walk in charitable events such as the March of Dimes and participate in the AMBUCS summer camp, among other activities.

The clown unit is a subordinate group of the Grotto, which is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. The clown unit usually has up to 15 members, said Marietta West, vice president of that group and a clown since 2003.

The clowns especially make sure they walk in parades, such as the Hoopeston Sweet Corn Festival, Oakwood Fourth of July and Danville Labor Day events. Instead of candy, the clowns hand out toothbrushes to the children along the parade route — part of the Grotto’s program to promote dental care among the underprivileged and special needs children.

“It’s nice to see the smiles on the kids (on the parade route),” West said. “It’s a fun thing.”

The clowns also like to give big hugs to people and say, “You’ve been hugged by a clown — have a great day.”

However, they don’t force themselves on those who are afraid of clowns, West added.

What’s nice about the clown unit is it allows women and children to participate, both West and Knee said. The Grotto is a men’s organization.

Most of the clowns are women, Knee said; the men in the group dress up like hobos. Also, members’ children and grandchildren get involved, and will walk in the parades. Some like to do cartwheels along the route, Knee said.

“Kids like things like this,” he said. “They love to get out there and show off.”

West said the clowns make their own outfits or buy them, and some have nicknames. They don’t go to clown school, she said, but they do help each other with makeup tips at meetings.

Now that the holidays are winding down, the clown unit will be inactive until March or April, West said. Then the group will get ready for another year of parades, school events and nursing home visits.

However, she stressed that the clowns are not available for hire at private parties.

Besides the clowns, the Grotto also has dinners that are open to the public, and sponsors other events.

FYI

To donate Beanie Babies or to schedule an appearance by the Gao Grotto clowns, call Marietta West at 442-2317. The clowns appear only at community events, and not at private parties.

Editorial Without Words - Shriners Hospitals

This picture by photographer Randy Dieterwhich came to symbolize the work of the Shriner's and Shriners Hospitals.  The Shriner in the picture is Albert "Al" Hortman, 80 who passed away December 6, 2009.  The story from the Shriners website:

Albert "Al" Hortman, 80, passed away on December 6, 2009. He will be best remembered as the Shriner carrying the young girl in the iconic photograph that became a beloved symbol of the Shriners fraternity and Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Hortman, a member of Al Sihah Shriners in Macon, Ga., is survived by his wife, Doris Anita Bridges Hortman; daughters, Julie M. Shofstall (Steve),  Laura H. Little (Chuck), Tina M. Perkins, and Donna L. Cline (Dana); brother, Mack Hortman and sisters, Gwendolyn King and Jeanette Ricks, and several grandchildren.

He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and received the Purple Heart. He retired from civil service at Robins Air Force Base, owned a pool business and worked at McCullough Funeral Home. He was a member of Jeffersonville Blue Lodge.

Hortman became a Shriner in 1968, after one of his daughters began receiving treatment at Shriners Hospitals for Children.

In 1970, photographer Randy Dieter was on assignment for a local newspaper covering Hadi Shriners’ annual outing for children with disabilities at an amusement park, when he happened upon Hortman carrying a young girl named Bobbi Jo Wright, and her crutches. One of Hortman's daughters is also in the photo, walking next to them.

“I was taking shots of the midway and was using my telephoto lens,” Dieter said. “I saw a local Shriner walking by carrying a little girl in one hand and her crutches in the other...I had to take my last shot as they walked by. It was the end of the roll. If I had to think about it, I wouldn’t have come up with something like that. Fate guides you."

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605

Ron Blue - Right Excellent Deputy Grand High Priest RAM

On 22 December 2009, our beloved companion was taken from us by lymphoma.

A wake will be held on Monday evening, 28 December, from 4:00 until 7:00 pm; with Masonic funeral rites to be performed at 7:00 p.m.; at Carmondy-Flynn Williamsburg Funeral Home located at 1800 Eastland, in Bloomington.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, 29 December, at St. Patrick Catholic Church of Merna, with visitation to begin at 9:30 a.m. St. Patrick of Merna is located at 1001 North Towanda Barnes Road, in Bloomington.

Companion Ronald K. Blue was born in 1945 at Boca Raton, Florida. After serving in the U.S. Army for three years, he studied Political Science at Illinois State University who awarded him the degree of master of science. He pursued a career in market research and management consulting with State Farm Insurance Company. On 24 August 1968, he married the former Janet McClellan. He is survived by Janet, their two children and three grand children.

He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in August 1981, in Mackinaw Lodge No. 132, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Illinois, in Mackinaw; served as Worshipful Master of Normal Lodge No. 673 in the years 1989-1990 and of Mackinaw Lodge No. 132 in 2004-2006. He also served as Worshipful Master of the Illinois Lodge of Research in 1987, and as its secretary from 1989 until his death in 2009. He was the recipient of the Alfonse Cerza Award and the Andrew Torok Award from that lodge. He has served the Grand Lodge, AF&AM of the State of Illinois in several capacities.

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Merry Christmas Bretheren

Gene Holt - Farmer City

R. Eugene Holt 
FARMER CITY - R. Eugene "Gene" Holt, 83, of Farmer City passed away Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, peacefully at 4:26 p.m. at home.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 26, at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home Farmer City with Jerry Hawn officiating. Inurnment will be in Greenleaf Cemetery, Farmer City, with military rites accorded. Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Gene Holt Memorial Fund at Farmer City State Bank. The money will be used for something at Fred G. O'Malley Post 6190 VFW, Farmer City and the Carle Cancer Center, Urbana.

Gene was born Jan. 21, 1926, in Farmer City, the son of Leonard and Virgie Neal Holt. He married Mary Helen Larson on July 9, 1949, at the United Methodist Church in Farmer City.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen Holt of Farmer City;
five daughters, Jan (Joe) Necessary of Heyworth, Chris (Ken) Hermann of DeLand, Anita (Mac) Harden of Farmer City, Diana Thomas (Chuck Penny) of Weldon and Nanci Holt of Farmer City; eight grandchildren, Mike Necessary (Carrie Necessary), Travis Hermann, Brett (Janelle) Hermann, Daci Hermann, Josh (Jesse) Harden, Jessi Harden (Aaron Price), Kati (Nick) Bumgardner and Logan Anderson; three great-grandchildren, Tate Harden, Dane Harden and Bella Necessary.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Gene worked alongside his father in the moving and storage business. He was later employed by and retired from Wickes Lumber.

Gene was an Army Veteran of World War II.

He was a charter and life member of Fred G. O'Malley Post 6190 VFW, Farmer City; life member of Joe Williams Post 55 American Legion, Farmer City, for 64 years and will be recognized as a 65-year member in January 2010; member of the Farmer City Masonic Lodge 710; and a Farmer City volunteer fireman for 38 years.

Gene was chauffer in his 1973 Cougar for Judy Fraser for 32 years in the Farmer City Christmas Parade.

Gene's life was blessed in many ways, including having wonderful family and friends. He took great pleasure in restoring player pianos and antique music machines. Gene was a jack-of-all-trades who enjoyed helping other people. Gene never knew a stranger and will be dearly missed by all.

Freemasons in the United States Congress

Lodge Number One - the North Pole

Lodge Number One, the North Pole
Author Unknown

'Twas the Night before Christmas, and down at the lodge
not a gavel was stirring, and in the hodge-podge.

Of aprons and jewels and chairs East and West
You could savor the silence, most gladly divest

All metal and mineral, it mattered not,
Since Christmas was nigh and the coals were still hot.

In the hearth of your homeplace, all Masons abed,
As visions of trestleboards danced in their head;

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter
Our Tiler jumped up to see what was the matter!

He picked up his sword and ran fast to the door,
Three knocks shook the panels - he wondered 'What for?'

He answered the knocking with raps of his own,
And once the door opened he saw, with a moan
Of delight it was Santa, all jolly and red

Except for one notable feature instead!
Upon his large finger he wore what we knew

Was compasses and square on a background of blue!
'Why Santa!' he shouted and lowered his blade,

'I see you're a Mason!' the Tiler relayed.
He looked tow'rd the Master's most dignified chair

And said, voice near trembling, 'Most Worshipful Sir
There's a Gentleman properly clothed at the gate!

The Master replied, 'Let's allow him - but wait!
You tell me a Gentleman, but I don't see

His Apron beneath that red suit, can it be
Our visitor hasn't been properly raised?

Must we offer a test that is suitably phrased?
'I do beg your pardon,' ol' Santa said quick

As he pulled up his coat and displayed not a stick
But a cane with engraving, two balls did appear

And oh, what an apron, he wore and held dear!
Adorned like the Master's, complete with a sign

Of "Lodge Number One, the North Pole" on one line!
"Now let this man enter," the Master declared,

And once in the Lodge room, the Brethren all stared,
For Santa was wearing a jewel not seen

For many a century - there in between
The fur of his coat and the splendid red collar

Gleamed two golden reindeer that shone line a dollar!
"It's Donner and Blitzen, who I must confess

"Are actually images brought from the West
By my Warden, a craftsman like none in the world!"

And with a great laugh from his bag he unfurled
An ear of fine corn, and some oil from the East,

"My friend I have plenty, tonight we will feast
On all that is good! We are Masons, kind sir!"

A murmur went throughout the Lodge, quite a stir,
As presents and promises flew from his sack!

This Santa, a Mason, showed he had a knack
For making this Christmas the best you could glean,

And soon even Deacons were laughing, they'd seen
On this very night only happiness reigned!

This jolly Saint Nicholas quickly explained
That only a Mason could be so inclined

To make all kids happy, make all people find
A Christmas so special, yes, Santa was right!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Bridgeport York Rite News

Bridgeport York Rite Newsletter

http://www.illinoisyorkrite.org/bridgeport_YR.htm

 One of a Kind Royal Arch Knife GIVEAWAY

(See details at end of newsletter)

Merry Christmas!!

Dec. 28^th dinner is a carry in!!! Charles Ensminger is bringing the meat. Lets make this a FEAST.

Albion Chapter: Help fight Cabin Fever!!!

Albion Chapter #237 invites any and all Blue Lodge Masons and Royal Arch Masons to free their Ladies from the Cabin for a night out.

Saturday February 6, 2010 at the Moose Lodge in Albion, Illinois (located on the Northwest Corner of the Square). Attitude Adjustment Hour at 6:00 PM and Dinner at 6:30 PM.

There will be a Guest Speaker who will talk on a subject that will of interest to the Ladies.

The menu will be Fried Chicken and/or Ham, Salad, Vegetables, Dessert, Iced Tea or Coffee for $10.00 per person.

Reservations must be made by January30, 2010. Make checks payable to Albion Chapter #237 and send to D. A. (Skip) Hamilton; HP

                          RR# 3  Box 181C

                          Albion, Illinois  62806

                          Email: skip115@verizon.net

                          Tel# (618) 445-2964  

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Bill Reeder - Atwood Lodge

ATWOOD - William P. "Bill" Reeder, 84, of rural Atwood passed away at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at Sullivan Health Care Center, Sullivan.

Funeral Services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Lake Fork United Church of Christ in Atwood, with the Rev. Conrad Heisner officiating. A celebration of his life will follow the services at 4 p.m. at the James Reeder American Legion Post in Atwood.

Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 66 E. U.S. 36, Atwood, is handling the arrangements.
Bill was born on Jan. 3, 1925, in Atwood, the son of Ralph and Mary (Hofsas) Reeder. He married Betty Eagan on Dec. 31, 1944, in Atwood, and she preceded him in death on June 5, 2005. Bill is survived by a sister, Betty (Fred) Harshbarger of Atwood; four children, Debbie Chenoweth of Atwood, Jerry (Dalene) of Ivesdale, Doug (Peggy) of Sullivan and Jim (Suellen) of Atwood; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and son-in-law, Roger Chenoweth.
Bill was a retired grain and livestock farmer. He was a distinguished member of the Lake Fork Church and a lifetime member of Atwood Masonic Lodge 651.

During his life, he served as a Macedonia 4-H Club leader, Atwood State Bank president, Atwood-Hammond school board member, Atwood Elevator board member, and health care provider for his wife.
In his earlier years, Bill was an accomplished sports participant, and was an avid sports fan throughout his life. He faithfully followed his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all their activities, bringing great joy to both himself and them. He was a lifelong Fighting Illini and Chicago Cubs fan.

Bill's wisdom, guidance, and wonderful sense of humor will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.
Memorials can be made to the Atwood Everyday Needy Fund, in care of First State Bank of Atwood or Lake Fork United Church of Christ.

Rick Bireline - Olive Branch Lodge

Robert Bireline

DANVILLE - Robert Richard Bireline, 64, of Danville died at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center, Danville. Services will be Wednesday or Thursday morning at Pape Funeral Home, 10 E. Williams, Danville. Visitation will be announced later, and will take place at Pape's. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society . Entombment will be in Spring Hill Mausoleum.

Rick was born Oct. 28, 1945, in Danville to Robert Allen and Helen May Shelato Bireline. He married Karen Jane Wright on Dec. 30, 1966, in Danville, and she survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Robert Bruce Bireline and Christopher Michael Bireline; five grandchildren, Robert Taylor Bireline, Katelyn Taylor Bireline, Matthew Allen Bireline, Justin Trevor Bireline and Alexis Kae Bireline; his mother, Helen (William) Pentecost; two sisters, Susan (Bill) Kinney and Patricia (Mark) Paris; and three brothers-in-law, Fred, Gene and Dennis Wright.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Rick attended Garfield and Roselawn grade schools, graduated from Danville High School in 1963 and attended Danville Junior College and the University of Illinois.

He served in the Illinois National Guard for six years. He had owned and operated Bireline Roofing from the early '60s until his retirement in 2005. He had been president of R.K. Sheet Metal Inc.

He was a member of St. James United Methodist Church, Olive Branch 38 Masonic Lodge, Danville Scottish Rite Bodies, Ansar Shrine, Elks 332 and American Legion Post 210 and had been a Little League football and baseball coach. His family had always been an important part of his life.
Condolences may be offered at www.papemortuary.com.

Dwight McCumber - Camargo Villa Grove

Dwight McCumber

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VILLA GROVE - Dwight McCumber, 90, of Villa Grove passed away at 11:55 a.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, at the Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, as a result of an automobile accident.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 705 South Main St., Tuscola, with the Rev. Nicholas Showalter officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Camargo Cemetery, Camargo. Military graveside rites will be accorded.
Dwight was born on Oct. 10, 1919, in Camargo, one of six children born to the late Frank and Florence Helm McCumber. He married Dorothy Williams on April 8, 1944, in San Luis Obispo, Calif. She preceded him in death on Oct. 27, 2007.
Survivors include his children, Jeanette Lecher and husband Dave of Tuscola, Jeanelle Mitsdarfer and husband Kenneth of Charleston, Darrell McCumber and wife Janet of Camargo; three grandchildren, Mallory Blair Seidlitz, Devon West McCumber and Eric Phillip Lecher; a sister, Louise Hawthorne of Sidney.
He was preceded in death by four brothers.
The family suggests that memorials be made to the Villa Grove Masonic Lodge or the Villa Grove United Methodist Church.
Dwight farmed for over 50 years and retired 20 years ago.
He served his country as a member of the Army during World War II, where he was a 1st sergeant in the infantry in the South Pacific.
He was a member of the Camargo Masonic Lodge. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed spending time with his family.
Condolences to the family may be sent to hilligossshraderfh.com

John Clodfelter - Fraternal Lodge Monticello

John Clodfelter

MONTICELLO - John J. Clodfelter, 83, of Monticello, passed away at 5:55 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at the Piatt County Nursing Home, Monticello.
Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 21, at the Mackey-Wright Funeral Home with Reverend Tim Bauler officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Bement Township Cemetery with military graveside rites.
John was born June 16, 1926, in Bement, the son of John J. and Jessie M. (Carmen) Clodfelter. He married Lois L. Hord on Aug. 5, 1949, in Bement.
Surviving is his wife, Lois Clodfelter of Monticello; daughters Carol (Jeff) Brisard of Clinton and Janet (Kent) Rebman of Brownsburg, Ind.; a son, Robert Clodfelter of Castle Rock, Colo.; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a twin brother, James Carmen Clodfelter, and three sisters, Florence Dobson, Mary Fern Clodfelter and Nita Snearly.
John was a retired maintenance electrician at the University of Illinois.
John served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. He was a member of the Monticello Hamm-Burke American Legion Post 101, Monticello Masonic Lodge 58 AF&AM, and the IBEW 601.
John graduated in 1944 from Bement High School.
He was an avid Illini fan. He loved and was devoted to his family. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff at the Piatt County Nursing Home.
Memorials may be made to the Piatt County Nursing Home or the Alzheimer's Association .
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mackey-wrightfuneralhome.com

Gus Richardson - Anchor Lodge

DANVILLE - Gus Shank Richardson, age 87, of Danville, passed away at 5:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.

He was born Sept. 27, 1922, in Danville, the son of Joseph Christopher and Rachel (Shank) Richardson. He married Dorothy L. Meeker on Aug. 4, 1945, in Hagerstown, Md. She survives. Gus is also survived by his children, Gayle (Clark) Smith, Dave (Lisa) Richardson, Sue (Harold "Butch") Cassidy, Jane (Dave) Bernthal; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, four sisters, a granddaughter, Lindsey; a grandson, Hunter; and a son-in-law, Paul Remlinger.

Gus served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean War.

He worked for the New York Central Railroad, retiring from there in the 1970's. Gus also was owner and operator of Richardson Construction for many years.

He was a member of the Third Marine Division Association, IUOE 841, Anker Lodge 980, a 32nd-degree Mason with the Valley of Danville Scottish Rite, Ansar Shriners, the First Presbyterian Church of Danville and a lifetime member of the Elks Club.

Gus enjoyed having coffee with his friends and playing cards. He never passed up the opportunity to help someone in need. He loved spending time with his family. Being the best husband, father, and grandfather was in his heart. God blessed this world with a remarkable man. He was loving, kind, generous, faithful, and grounded in his faith; Gus was a great example for all who knew him.

A celebration of life service for Gus Richardson will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 21, at Sunset Funeral Home in Danville with the Reverend Drs. Jimmy and Katie Hopper officiating. Masonic rites will be performed by the Anker Lodge 980. Burial will follow the service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Danville. Visitation will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 20, at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made in Gus's name to either the First Presbyterian Church of Danville or the Shriners.

Email condolences can be sent to the family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.


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Sumner Lodge Offers Special Degree Setting

January 8 (Friday) Sumner Lodge #334 Christmas Candlelight Fellowcraft Degree. The entire degree will be conferred by a team of Young Master Masons all under age 30. The lodge will be lighted with only candles and lamps creating a nostalgic atmosphere of days gone by.

Refreshments will be served at 6:30PM with lodge opening at 7:30PM. Contact 618-843-8424.

Carl Aten, Chaplain
Sumner Lodge #334
Sumner, Illinois

Doc's Holiday Pictures

Doc's Holiday was performed Saturday December 12 at the Masonic Temple in Danville, Illinois

Bridgeport York Rite Newsletter

Bridgeport York Rite Newsletter
http://www.illinoisyorkrite.org/bridgeport_YR.htm

One of a Kind Royal Arch Knife
GIVEAWAY
(See details at end of newsletter)
Dec. 28th dinner is a carry in!!! Charles Ensminger is bringing the meat.
From Beyond The Veils

Greetings Companions,

Your York Rite Bodies are going to be very busy over the next couple of months, with much work to do and many activities to attend. Some of the things your Chapter will be doing are as follows. Our next stated meeting, December 28, will be our annual Christmas Party, and the Chapter will be opening. We will have a very short meeting, conducting only as much business as is absolutely necessary; after which time we will adjourn to the dining room for food, games, friendship, and fellowship. We will also be competing in the first round of the Keystone Quest that night. For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, the Keystone Quest is a Masonic trivia contest consisting of question and answer cards which must be matched within the time allotted and submitted to the Grand Chapter. The winning Chapters from each district then compete in the second round, and the three best scores from there go on to compete for the championship at Grand Sessions. Companions this is one of the Grand Chapter’s best programs, for while everyone wants to do well, the true spirit of this competition is not to “beat the other guy” but to have fun while learning more about Freemasonry. If you go into it with this attitude, I can assure you that you will enjoy it. The questions and answers for this round are drawn from the entries under the letter “G” in Mackey’s Encyclopedia, which can be found online in a number of places, one of which is www.glnb.org/books/mackeyE/. So, study up and come enjoy all the fun and camaraderie at our next stated meeting.
Your Chapter will also be conferring the 4th & 5th degrees at Flat Rock Lodge #348 on Wednesday January 20 for several new candidates. At our stated meeting on February 22 our Chapter will receive our District Deputy Grand High Priest. We will also be conferring the 6th & 7th degrees that night. So, whether or not you are interested in performing degree work, please attend and help welcome our new Companions into the wonderful world that is the York Rite of Freemasonry. I would also encourage all of you, especially the officers and those interested in learning, to attend our Capitular Club. The next meeting will be December 20 at 2:30 PM in Albion.
More information will be forthcoming on these, and many other activities and events. And I hope to see you all at these events. So, keep a watch on the newsletters for the many opportunities for friendship and fellowship offered by your York Rite Bodies for YOU, for, indeed, YOU are the York Rite, and the York Rite is YOU.

Fraternally Yours,
Jason Kinsolving, EHP
Henry Godeke Chapter #38

FROM THE SECRET VAULT
Companions,

“Sometimes no news is good news…except when the editor is demanding an article for the newsletter.” –Bryan L. Hart

We do have several more petitions in the works. It could be a busy late winter/early spring.

A Grand Council “School of Instruction” is being planned and will most likely be held at one of the Council’s in our District. I have put the word out that we would be honored to host it. We will have to wait and see what happens. I believe the instruction would cover opening, closing, receiving various dignitaries, and any specific questions anyone may have.
“Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” – Teddy Roosevelt
Until Next Time,

Bryan

POOR & WEARY PILGRIM:
Our Inspection has been move to Feb. 20th. Please take time to mark this in your calendar.

Some exciting events are being planned for 2010!!! We are meeting this week to finalize some plans and we will make a big announcement very soon.

Christmas is almost upon us and it’s getting colder. This is the time to check on our older members and widows. Call on them and see if they need anything or use some help. The Grand Lodge has a OUTREACH PROGRAM could they use this? Our Grand Lodge found one widow eating cat food. Could this be one of your Lodge’s widows?

As our society pulls further and further away from religion it is up to us as Knights Templars to remind our family and friends what the true meaning of Christmas is all about. Let us put Christ back in Christmas.

“ Remember your obligation, you took it too”

May God Bless,
Bill Hussey
At the October Stated Meetings the Bridgeport York Rite Bodies voted to establish a fund that would pay for the dues of our Active Military Members and come to the relief of a distress Companion or Sir Knight.

This NAMED FUND has been established and named the Almonder Fund. This fund can ONLY be used for the reasons listed above.

If you wish to donate to this cause, please remit checks payable to the Almonder Fund and send to the Secretary of the Bridgeport York Rite Bodies at:

Bruce W. Rhinehart
RR #1 Box 343
Bridgeport, Illinois 62417-9772

I want to thank you in advance for your generous donations.

Skip Hamilton - Treasurer Bridgeport York Rite Bodies

Did You Know? THE BELOW IS A REPRINT FROM THE ILLINOIS YORK RITE NEWSLETTER DATED OCTOBER 2004. IT IS FROM JOHN T. RIEDAS, SR. WHO WAS RIGHT EMINENT GRAND COMMANDER FROM 2004/2005.
Sir Knights: Several months ago, at the Spring Planning Meeting of the Grand Commandery Officers, we presented to those present a program “BACK TO THE BASICS” As the program is too long to present to you in one issue, we will be a part of this program each month. We feel that if you follow these twenty-six points it will improve your Commandery in a number of ways, new members, attendance and the future of Templary in general.
I – ILLINOIS KNIGHT TEMPLAR HOME AT PAXTON ILLINOIS:

The pride of Illinois is our Illinois Knight Templar Home for the Aged Infirm, located in Paxton, Illinois. For over fifty years, this home, the only Knight Templar Home in the Grand Encampment has served the needs of the Sir Knights, Ladies and members of our Masonic Family in Illinois. “We endeavor to bind up the wounds of the afflicted.”
A visit to this monument to those of our senior members who now are dependent upon us for care brings a strong feeling of pride to each of us as we enter through the portals of this building designed for their care and comfort.

Editors note: we will continue each issue with 1 of the 26 points.

Capitular Club: The next meeting will be Dec. 20th at Albion. We will start at 2:30pm. There are many small parts for companions who would like to get involved. Try it you might just have fun!

Next Meeting: Dec 28th at 7pm with our dinner at 6pm. Come break bread with your brothers and enjoy the fellowship. We have decided to ask for a minimum $5.00 donation for our meals. Any money collected above the cost of the meal will go into a meal fund. At the end of the year we will have a family meal somewhere.

Quotes: “ After all these years I miss that Orangutan. It could drive better than me”
Norman Trousdale

Dec 28th Meeting: EHP Jason Kinsolving will open the Chapter.

Check out our website at http://www.illinoisyorkrite.org/bridgeport_YR.htm If there is anything you would like to see added to our new website let us know.
Web Sites of interest:
http://www.ram-il.org/index.htm Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Illinois
http://www.crypticmasons-il.org Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Illinois
http://illinoisyorkrite.org/ilgrandcommandery.htm Illinois Grand Commandery
http://illinoisyorkrite.org Illinois York Rite
http://www.ilmason.org/home.html Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of the State of Illinois

Jason Kinsolving Bryan Hart Bill Hussey
EHP EC
Henry Godeke Chapter #38 W. R. Lashbrook Council #55 Gorin Commandery #14
seeker01@shawneelink.net hart511@verizon.net bigbill111@verizon.net

Bruce W. Rhinehart
Secretary/Recorder
York Rite of Bridgeport
brhineh98@yahoo.com

If there is anything that you would like to see added to the next newsletter
Please send it to me by Dec 18th!
Editor: Bill Hussey bigbill111@verizon.net

SK Earl Knight KYCH, KCRORBE, EPGW, O.P.C-
Official Web Master of The Bridgeport York Rite

Royal Arch Knife Giveaway: That’s right!!!! We have had a special knife made as a fundraiser. This special knife has the Triple Tau and Keystone carved in to the Stag Handle. We will also throw in a beautiful Black Leather Sheath!!! A picture will follow in the next issue of our newsletter.

For a $1.00 donation your name will be deposited into the bucket. For a $5.00 donation your name will be deposited 6 times!!!!! It can be seen at all Bridgeport York Rite Functions. Your Donation can be given by check made out to Bridgeport York Rite and sent to:

Bridgeport York Rite
C/O Bruce Rhinehart
Route 1 Box 343
Bridgeport, Illinois 62417

Bob Carter - Mattoon Lodge

Robert Carter "Bob"
MATTOON - Robert E. "Bob" Carter, 78, of Mattoon, passed away at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 11, 2009, at his residence.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Monday evening, December 14, at the Schilling Funeral Home, 1301 Charleston Avenue in Mattoon, with Masonic Rites beginning at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services honoring his life will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 15, at the funeral home with the Reverend Walter Sheets officiating. Burial with Military Honors by the V.F.W. Post 4325 will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens. Mattoon.

Bob was born January 6, 1931 in Mattoon, a son of Occie D. and Minnie Martha (Whitrock) Carter. He married Gladine Jane Bown on June 7, 1956.

Survivors include his loving wife, Gladine Carter of Mattoon; three sons, Kenneth E. Carter of Farmington, New York, Steven E. Carter and wife Katrina and Scott A. Carter, all of Mattoon; sister, Marguerite Shafer of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; brother, Wayne Carter of San Bernardino, California; five grandchildren, April Brunner of Farmington, New York, Valorie Carter, Robert Carter, Zackery Carter, and Karli Carter, all of Mattoon; and three great-grandchildren, Rachel Brunner, Emily Brunner, and Joshua Schneider.

He was preceded in death by one son, Burton Charles Carter; two sisters, Mae Stanford and Edna Grant; and two brothers, Charles Carter and Joseph Carter.

Mr. Carter was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War. Bob was formerly employed with the Big Four Railroads, Montgomery Ward Dept. Store, and Prudential Insurance from which he retired in 1991. He attended the Real Life Community Church of the Nazarene.

Bob was a member of High 12 Club, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Danville, and Mattoon Masonic Lodge where he was a 32nd Degree Mason.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in his honor are suggested to Shriners Hospital For Children in St. Louis, Missouri, American Cancer Society , American Heart Association , or Lincolnland Hospice.

Commandery School on Saturday in Decatur

Sir Knights, I wanted to remind you of the School of Instruction at Decatur Temple on December 12. We will have coffee and donuts at 8:00AM and instruction will begin promptly at 9:00AM. Instruction will be given by the Right Eminent Grand Commander, Sir Knight Joe Lucas. There will be a light lunch following the instruction. Bring your sword, hat and any questions you might have.

Larry E Raglan

James K. Sanders

James K. Sanders Share E-mail Visit Guest Book
CLINTON - James K. Sanders, 102, of Clinton passed away at 7:40 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009, at Dr. John Warner Hospital, Clinton. Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, with the Rev. Leah Pogemiller and the Rev. C. Don Ferrill officiating. Burial will be in Mausoleum Park Cemetery, Clinton. Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, with Masonic rites at 7 p.m.

James was born on Oct. 11, 1907, in Springfield, the son of John E. and Grace M. Slay Sanders. He married Velma Norene Roach on March 14, 1937, in King Fisher, Okla. She passed away on Feb. 17, 2006.

Survivors include one daughter, Patricia J. (Eddie) Lane of Weldon; two grandsons, Jeffrey D. (Deb) Lane of Gainsville, Va. and Scott A. (Cindy) Lane of Amissville, Va.; four great-grandchildren, James Kenneth Lane, Joshua Lane, Amber (Jeremy) Mansfield and Marlene Lane; and one great-great-grandson, Cameron Lane.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.

He was a member of Clinton United Methodist Church; the Mountain Grove, Mo., Masonic Lodge; Clinton Kiwanis Club, where he was a past president; and a life member of Telephone Pioneers. He was a retired employee of General Telephone Company.

Memorials may be made to the DeWitt County Museum or to the Clinton Kiwanis Club.

Howard Douglas - Oakland Lodge

Howard Douglas
CLINTON, Ind. - Howard Leon Douglas, 88, of Clinton, Ind., formerly of Hindsboro, Ill., passed away at 11:30 a.m. Friday (Dec. 4, 2009) at his home in Clinton.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Standard Funeral Home in Oakland, with Lay Minister John Martin officiating. Burial will be in VanVoorhis Cemetery, with military rites conducted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Sgt. C.W. Clement Post 3637, Oakland, Ill., and American Legion Robert Willoughby Post 977, Brocton, Ill.

Visitation with the family will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, immediately prior to the funeral service.

Howard Leon Douglas was born on Sept. 21, 1921, in Hindsboro, the son of Ralph and Ethel Marie Hanks Douglas. He was educated in the Hindsboro area and graduated in 1939. He then attended two years of business college in Champaign.

From 1942 to 1946, Leon served in the United States Navy as a machinist's mate third class.

On Oct. 16, 1948, he married Marjorie Louise Barnett in Arcola.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie Douglas of Clinton, Ind.; one son, Robert John Douglas of Urbana; one daughter, Brenda Alabaugh and husband Robert of Clinton, Ind.; two granddaughters, Avada Douglas of Boston, Mass., and Andrea Deitchley and husband Matt of South Bend, Ind.; one grandson, David Alabaugh of Terre Haute, Ind.; and two sisters, Frieda Roberts of Indianapolis, Ind., and Joyce Seitz of Tucson, Ariz.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister.

Leon was employed for several years at Hindsboro Implement Company and Arcola Bank. He then worked as a clerk for the United States Post Office in Urbana, where he worked for over 30 years, retiring in 1984.

He was a member of the Hindsboro American Legion, the Hindsboro United Methodist Church, the Oakland Masonic Lodge, and the 32nd Degree Danville Consistory. He also attended the First United Methodist Church in Clinton, Ind.

A memorial fund is being established for either the Hindsboro Methodist Church or the Hindsboro Civic Center.

Degree work this week

Tuesday December 8 - 2nd Degree's at St. Joseph Lodge No. 970. Dinner at 6pm and degree at 6:30pm.

Thursday December 10 - 3rd Degree's at Western Star Lodge (Champaign) at 6:30 pm.

Russel West - Anchor Lodge

RUSSELL W. WEST

Russell W. West of Danville passed away on Nov. 28, 2009, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

Born June 19, 1935, he was the son of Tommy and Mable (McElwee) West. He married Wilma I (Goble) on Dec. 16, 1955.

She survives, as well as two daughters, Cathie (Leroy) Miller of Georgetown and Connie (Steve) Dodson of Old Hickory, Tenn.; four step-grandchildren; one sister, Virginia Denham of Crawfordsville, Ind.; and one brother, John West of Waynetown, Ind. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, William; one brother, Thomas; and two sisters, Agnes West and Edith Young.

He was a Mason brother of the Masonic Lodge 980 and was also a member of the Independent Lift Truck Builders Union. He retired from Hyster as an electrician in 2002. He then obtained his CDL and drove for Renzenberger Corporation and later for Corporate Transport Farms. His hobbies were playing guitar, harmonica and attending bluegrass music festivals, He loved fishing on the Wabash River and restoring Midget automobiles.

A celebration of his life will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at Pape’s Mortuary, 10 E. Williams St. Service will follow at 7 p.m. with pastor Dave Rumley from the First Assembly of God Church officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Masonic Temple, 109 North St., Danville, IL 61832. Guest register: www.papemortuary.com