The History of Nickel Lodge No. 427 – October 1991 to Present
EXCERPT FROM- M.W. Bro. Norman E. Byrne, Grand Master’s address at Grand Lodge 1992
“I was pleased to assist in the rededication of Nickel Lodge No. 427, at Sudbury, and the dedication of new golden trimmed regalia in October 1991. The celebration was exceptionally well planned and will serve as a bench mark for other lodges as they approach this Masonic landmark. I am pleased to see this distinguished lodge wearing regalia and insignia trimmed or plated in gold finish as recognition for having attained 100 years of active service. Congratulations.”
R.J. Fontaine 1991
In the foyer of the Belrock Masonic Centre, a visitor will be find the Nickel Lodge Centennial Plaque. In the afternoon of the rededication, M.W. Bro. Byrne unveiled this plaque and it was dedicated by W. Bro. Eric T. Benedict Nickel Lodge’s Chaplain. Numerous items of regalia were donated to the Lodge by it’s members, fellow Masons, other Craft Lodges and other Masonic bodies. W. Bro. Robert Jacques Fontaine recognized certain individuals who had contributed so much to “The Lodge”, who had recently passed away and who had looked forward to the Celebration on October 19th 1991. He recognized those that had contributed so much each day, especially Bro. Lloyd MacTagart, Secretary who devoted so much of his waking hours to Nickel Lodge. “However the future and history hold great deal of gold for Nickel Lodge in men who are making tomorrow’s history to-day.” In recognition of his failing health and that he had given so much to Masonry, the Grand Master appointed W. Bro. Finlay Gordon Macleod, a Grand Steward with the accompanying title of Very Worshipful. Bro. Macleod passed to the Grand Lodge Above a few day later. Approximately 111 members attended his Masonic Memorial Service. Bro. Macleod, who had designed the Nickel Lodge Tartan, was subsequently thanked for his gift of a Nickel Lodge Tartan scarf by the Prince and Princess of Wales. At the Past Master’s Night in November-V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin, on behalf of his brother- W. Bro. Roy Gilpin, presented the Lodge with the door-knocker from 10 Cedar Street, which had been the home for Nickel Lodge for many years leading up to 1973.
That evening, the old practice of having a venison dinner was resurrected. In recognition of his failing health and that he had given so much to Masonry, the Grand Master appointed W. Bro. Finlay Gordon Macleod, a Grand Steward with the accompanying title of Very Worshipful. Bro. Macleod passed to the Grand Lodge Above a few days later. Approximately 111 members attended his Masonic Memorial Service. Bro. Macleod, who had designed the Nickel Lodge Tartan, was subsequently thanked for his gift of a Nickel Lodge Tartan scarf by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
V.W. Bro. S.A. (Art) H. Cressey was recognized for being appointed as Ambassador Emeritus of the Sudbury Shrine Club. It is only the fourth such designation in Ontario. Personalized licence plates became.available in Ontario in the 1980’s. Much to the chagrin of many Nobles in the province, Noble Cressey quickly took action and obtained the plates “Shriner”.
The practice of presenting Nickel Lodge Bursaries in the amount of $427.00 each, to two students at Laurentian University and Cambrian College was commenced.
The Official Visit of R.W. Bro. J. David Innes was in March when he witnessed the Initiation of Mr. Joseph Richard Rodak.
W. Bro. Fontaine having served as Worshipful Master for sixteen months, was allowed to retire when …
S. Ellor 1992
Bro. Squire Ellor became the first Worshipful Master of the second One Hundred Years of Nickel Lodge on May 6th and was installed by W. Bro. William B. Walker. The principal officers passed their lapel pins to their respective successors.
Brethren from Keystone Lodge No. 412 in Sault Ste. Marie initiated Mr. David Derek Hartzberg on May 23rd.
At the September meeting; having completed the duties as District Secretary with the passing of V.W. Bro. Macleod, W. Bro. Fred Bright was invested as a Grand Steward. V.W. Bro. S.A.H. Cressey was presented with his sixty year membership pin that evening.
The Annual Lodge Memorial Service was held in December in memory of the passing of Brethren in the past year. The Worshipful Master conducted the service and sang the hymn- The Lord is My Shepherd.
In January: Friendship Lodge No. 691 attended to complete the 32nd Annual Reciprocal Visitation and passed Bro. David Derek Hartzberg to the Fellowcraft Degree.
The Official Visit of R.W. Bro. Donald E. Belfry was in March, at which time Mr. David Arthur Fowler was initiated into Masonry.
In April, the Ontario Provincial Police No. 13 District Masonic Degree Team under the leadership of W. Bro. Robert South , initiated Mr. Brian Frederick Foreshew (a fellow officer).
R.J. Fleming 1993
Bro. Robert James Fleming was installed as the Worshipful Master in May 5th by W. Bro. Russell A. Dever.
On May 19th a Masonic Degree Team from the Sudbury Shrine Club initiated Mr. Derrick Eliot Greasley.
In October, Friendship Lodge attended for the second half of the 33rd Annual Reciprocal Visitation and initiated Mr. Roy Joeveer.
In December, the Memorial Service was delayed due to the guest speaker attempting to gain entrance at the back door of the Centre. The Shrine Choir entertained the members and guests during the wait. The Worshipful Master conducted the service in memory of those Brethren who had passed to the Grand Lodge Above, in the past year. A $5000.00 donation was made towards the Sudbury Memorial Hospital campaign to raise funds for Cardio Thoracic and High Risk General Surgical equipment.
The Official Visit of R.W. Bro. Robert South was the occasion to observe the passing of Bros. Brian Foreshew and Albert Stonier to the Fellowcraft Degree.
M.J. Fleming 1994
Bro. Milton James Fleming was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 4th by W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming. W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming presented his father, with a gavel made by R.W. Bro. Alex Gray.
Members gathered for a Bar-B-Q at the home of R.W. Bro. J. David Innes in July.
R.W. Bro. Ronald Zinkie, D.D.G.M. attended the September meeting and presented the Lodge with a plaque from the Grand Lodge Committee on Communications, in recognition of their 3rd place finish for the Lodge summons the previous year. He also presented W. Bro. R.J. Fleming with a plaque to recognize his 200 donations of blood. W. Bro. Robert E. Bryson was recognized for his 50 years of service to Masonry.
Following a venison dinner at the Past Master’s Night in November, W. Bro. Don McPhail led his team in the Initiation of Mr. Clive David Stephenson.
In December, the Annual Lodge Memorial Service was conducted under the direction of the Worshipful Master.
In January, the Worshipful Master welcomed Bro. Donald MacKinnon from Scotland and his son, Bro. John MacKinnon from Australia. They had not sat in Lodge together for many years.
R.W. Bro. Ronald S. Zinkie attended for his Official Visit to view the Initiation of Mr. Nigel Leigh.
R.C.N. Kemp 1995
Bro. Robert Christopher Neville Kemp was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 3rd by W. Bro. Russell A. Dever.
Bro. George Fleming was presented with his 50 year pin in June and it was acknowledged that a more deserving recipient would be very hard to find. Plans for the Lodge’s Annual Bar-B-Q in July (weather permitting) included “Bring your own fire extinguisher.”
In September, W. Bro. Ronald Eveson Sr., attended with his team from Friendship Lodge for the Reciprocal Visit and conducted the initiation of Mr. Robert Cross.
At the Past Master’s Night in November, V.W. Bro. Frederick W. Bright led his team in the exemplification of the first degree with Bro. Michael Dowling as the candidate.
The Annual Lodge Memorial Service was conducted under the direction of the Worshipful Master. Bro. Gerry Lougheed Jr., presented an address.
In March, R.W. Bro. William P. Clark attended to observe the Raising of Bro. Paavo Eric Liukko.
K.G. Alexander 1996
Bro. Kenneth George Alexander was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 1st by W. Bro. Robert J. Fontaine.
In July, a work retreat and golfing was hosted by W. Bro. Robert Fontaine at his cottage.
October was Past Master’s Night and W. Bro. Eric Benedict led his team in the initiation of Mr. Rodney P. O’Connor.
In December, Bro. Oliver Coley was presented with his 50 year pin. He had been a high school shop teacher for many members, assisted students with their lessons and was loved by all who knew him.
On January 8th, a team from Nickel Lodge led by the Worshipful Master, took advantage of the 1st Wednesday falling on New Year’s Day, and attended Espanola Lodge No. 527 and performed the 3rd degree. The two Lodges both meet on the 1st Wednesday, and as Friendship Lodge occupied Belrock on the 2nd Wednesday, thereby the Lodge’s Regular is held on the 3rd Wednesday.
In January, W. Bro. Ray Barlow attended with his team from Friendship Lodge for the Initiation of Mr. Bernard Andrews.
The Official Visit of R.W. Bro. Don Rousell was the occasion to observe the raising of Bro. Beaumont Nelson.
J.D. Horace 1997
Bro. John Doumergue Horace was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 7th by R.W. Bro. J. David Innes.
In June, communication was received to accept a condominium agreement with the Sudbury Shrine Club and that The Belrock Temple Corporation attempt to acquire an additional easement(s) from The Sudbury Memorial Hospital for access purposes for the present facility. In 2008 and 2009, these matters were still being discussed.
The Lodge Bar-B-Q was again held at the home of R.W. Bro. David Innes. Apparently the host eventually provided a humorous explanation as to his attire at the event!
In November, W. Bro. Ross King attended with his team from Friendship Lodge for the passing of Bro. Reijo Luoma to the Fellowcraft Degree. In the banquet room that evening, W. Bro. Squire Ellor was present to enjoy the infamous Nickel Lodge egg salad sandwiches as well as a display of other sandwiches and desserts. (I don’t think W. Bro. Ellor likes egg salad sandwiches.)
In November, the members were treated to a well-received Masonic education presentation with regard to the “Charge to the Newly Initiated Candidate” by Bro. Greg Newson and “other Grand Lodges” by Bro. Robert Storie.
In February 1998, the Retired Officers Police Degree Team attended and made the Worshipful Master an “Honorary Retired Police Officer, so that he would be more relaxed” while they initiated Mr. George Nichols into Masonry. When they were completed their• work, they relieved the Master of his honorary status.
At the Emergent Meeting that month, V.W. Bro. Vilho Koivu attended with his Scottish Rite Lodge of Perfection Degree Team and initiated Mr. Pertti Juusela.
R.W. Bro. Ronald C. Eveson Jr., attended on the occasion of his Official Visit for the raising of Bro. Reijo Luoma.
At the March Committee of General Purposes Meeting, R.W. Bro. J. David Innes presented a motion that the members boycott Bro. Robert Storie’s Step-up-Night. He then withdrew the motion.
R.J. Storie 1998
Bro. Robert James Storie was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 6th by W. Bro. Eric T. Benedict. On behalf of Bro. George Fleming, he was presented with a gavel which had belonged to W. Bro. Norm Harper. Brass plates engraved with the names of Bros. Harper and Storie and their respective years were attached. Embedded into the other end was the Lodge’s Centennial pin. W. Bro. Storie was invested with the Master’s apron which was donated by V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin on behalf of the late W. Bro. Roy Gilpin.
W. Bro. Russell Dever led his team of Past Masters in the initiation of Mr. Charles F. Jireada.
In October, W. Bro. Storie led a contingent of the Brethren from Nickel and Friendship Lodges to North Star Lodge in Owen Sound (former home of W. Bro. Eric Benedict) and conferred the Fellowcraft Degree on a member of that Lodge.
In November, W. Bro. Glen Smith attended with his team from Friendship Lodge for the passing of their member, Bro. Brian Falter.
At the Annual Memorial Night in December, the members and visitors recognized the “Passing to the Grand Lodge Above” of eight members and the passing of the wives of two members.
R.W. Bro. Brian Koivu on the occasion of his Official Visit witnessed the raising of Bro. David Kennedy and then assisted the Worshipful Master in presenting V.W. Bro. John Gilpin with his 50 year membership pin.
M.A. Dowling 1999
Bro. Michael Anthony Dowling was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 5th by W. Bro. Eric T. Benedict.
At the Past Master’s Night in October, W. Bro. Sqire Ellor accepted the gavel to conduct the raising of Bro. Joel Mackey. Prior to the meeting, Bro. Junior Warden and his faithful side-kick – Bro. Reijo Luoma served a meal of exquisite craftsmanship with crispy greens, lasagna, juicy tender chicken and heart-warming meat balls, a choice of deserts, and some fire-breathing Italian sausages.
In November, W. Bro. Robert Fleming gave a most informative presentation on the Brother-2-Brother Programme.
The December meeting was held on the third Wednesday so that members of Nickel Lodge would be able to attend the D.D.G.M.’s Official Visit at Espanola Lodge.
It was reported that the Lodge’s Altar; which had been used at 10 Cedar Street (the previous home for the Lodge), was going to be donated to Elliot Lake Lodge.
In January, W. Bro. Gary Fortin led his team from Friendship Lodge to initiate Mr. Randy N. Koski.
On Step-up-Night, Bro. Greg Newson and his team initiated Mr. Brian Howe.
R.W. Bro. Richard Nanka-Bruce attended for his Official Visit to witness the initiation of Mr. Timothy Roulston. Motions presented by the Temple Board were considered with regards to making the building: “Non- smoking”; that work be done to beautify the Lodge Room along with financial support from the lodges and concordant bodies.
G.L. Newson 2000
Bro. Gregory Lynd Newson was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 3rd by R.W. Bro. Robert South. W. Bro. Raymond S.J. Daniels of New Hope Lodge No. 279 in Cambridge Ontario (and who would be elected Deputy Grand Master of our Grand Lodge in 2007) was in attendance.
The Lodge held their Annual Lodge Picnic at the home of R.W. Bro. David Innes on the shores of MacFarlane Lake in August. Discussion with regards to a sound system for the Lodge Room took place.
The Lodge sponsored the Grand Lodge – Lodge of Instruction for the District. The Worshipful Master presented Masonic Education pertaining to the Memorial Service held at the funeral home, followed by a question and answer period. Three un-answered questions would be presented to M.W. Bro. C. Edwin Drew, Custodian of the Work. Bro. Al Stonier had the picture of V.W. Bro. Greg Roy; who had been the Lodge’s Secretary for many years, re-matted. He would have many other photos re-stored in a similar manner.
At the Past Master’s Night in October, W. Bro. Robert Fleming led his team of Past Masters in the passing of Bro. Jose Garcia. The Lodge made a donation of $500.00 to show their support for the work being done by the Lodge Beautification Committee.
In November, W. Bro. Wah Chung attended with his team from Friendship Lodge on the occasion of the 40th Annual Reciprocal Visit to pass Bro. Pertii Juusela to the Fellowcraft Degree. The anti-room to the Lodge Banquet Room was designated as the smoking area.
Pastor Perry Chuipka, the son of Bro. Lorne Chuipka conducted the Annual Memorial Service in December wherein the members and guests recognized the passing of eight members of the Lodge to the Grand Lodge Above.
In February, W. Bro. Claude Gervais led a team from Bethel Lodge No. 699 and exemplified a 3rd Degree on Bro. Barry Greasley, as the scheduled candidate was not available.
Bro. Brian Howe was the candidate for the exemplification of the second degree for R.W. Bro. Rudolph Mulack’s Official Visit. Assisted by R.W. Bro. David Innes, he presented Bro. Howard Jones with his 60 year membership pin on May 2nd 2001.
B.W.Greasley 2001
Bro. Barry Wayne Greasley was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 2nd by W. Bro. Jervis Weir.
In September, R.W. Bro. Innes enlightened the Brethren as to why Nickel Lodge never has “Unfinished Business”. The members always complete their business. On one occasion a Brother thought some business had been left unfinished; but, after some discussion, it was determined that matter had been completed. Bro. Junior Warden, Bro. Grant Boyce informed the members, that his wife Joanne had prepared chili [or the evening Repast. They had just bought a new stove and she told him not to touch it. He did, and he burnt the chili. He then announced that his “best-friend Wendy” (Wendy’s Restaurant, that is) supplied the evening chili.
In October, W. Bro. Robert Storie reported, that he, W. Bro. Eric Benedict and R.W. Bro. Robert South (the Lodge’s Secretary) had done some house cleaning. He became known as “pitch” for trying to throw stuff out, Bro. Benedict became known as “the keeper” and Bro. South as “the mediator”. Part of the find was one and half boxes of forgotten “Nickel Lodge Centennial Coffee Cups”. Members present could have one, after the close of Lodge and the balance would be donated to the coffee club, being started by V.W. Bro. Keith Jordan. This was the start of “JAVA GUILD”. Bro. Grant Boyce reported he, that afternoon, had received information that a Brother from a Lodge in Barrie was in need of an ambulance ride to and from the hospital the next day. The cost would be $90.00, which the Brother’s wife did not have. During the “Call-Off”, Bro. Marven Firth collected $90.00 from the Brethren present which was presented to the widow. This was Past Masters Night, and a team led by W. Bro. Milt Fleming, initiated Mr. Maurice Randolph Gillard.
In November, the 41st Annual Reciprocal Visit of Friendship Lodge was held with W. Bro. David Kelly presiding over his team on the occasion of the initiation of Mr. Marvin Leonard Nelson. As a result of a “Consultation Report” presented by Bro. Grant Boyce, the Lodge adopted a policy that should a Brother need to leave the Lodge in an emergency, he should do so without ceremony and should a Brother have difficulty standing, he should remain seated.
R.W. Bro. David A. Salter had his Official Visit when Mr. Bradley Scott Nairn was Initiated.
At the March- Committee of General Purposes Meeting, the Committee learned that the Temple Board had approved the expenditure for a sound system and that the bathroom on the banquet room level would be completed soon.
G.E. Boyce 2002
Bro. Grant Erwin Boyce was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 1st by R.W. Bro. J. David Innes. In attendance was R.W. Bro. Allan J. Petrisor, who would become Deputy Grand Master in 2005.
In June, Bro. Oliver Coley sat in the East with his son, W. Bro. Doug Coley who visiting him from Saskatchewan. In preparation for the evening in which V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin would become an honourary life member of Friendship Lodge, the members approved the purchase of an Altar Cloth for that Lodge.
In September, W. Bro. Robert Fleming was recognized “for outstanding service to Scouting”, “not merely the faithful performance of duties attached to the office or position”, when he was presented with “The Medal of Good Merit”.
At the Emergent Meeting that month, W. Bro. Allan Burns led a team of Masons from the Sudbury Shrine Club when they initiated Mr. Paul Robert Campbell.
In November, members of Gothic Lodge No. 608 in Lindsay raised Bro. Paul Ruff Jr. The Lodge donated $1000.00 to Project 204. This was a smoke-free, two bedroom apartment at Belrock which was available at no cost, to any out of town member of the Masonic Fraternity, who needed a place to stay when they or a loved one were in a local hospital or at the Northern Cancer Treatment Centre. The practice of having the Minutes of Lodge Meetings and the Report of the Committee of General Purposes Meeting printed and circulated by e-mail; so members may read them prior to the Regular Meeting, was commenced.
In December, up-dated By-laws were passed by the members. In recognition of the outstanding contributions by Bro. Marven Firth to Masonry and his community, a motion was passed to grant an Honorary Life Membership in the Lodge.
R.W. Bro. James Thomson attended on the occasion of his Official Visit to witness the raising of Bro. James Gies. Bro. Thomson informed the Brethren that though it was known that Friendship Lodge had erected the sign outside the front door, it was accomplished with the assistance of W. Bro. Doumergue Horace.
At the Past Master’s Night in March, W. Bro. Kenneth Alexander, led his team in the passing of Bro. Paul Campbell. W. Bro. Grant Boyce initiated the request to Grand Lodge to have Bro. Marven Firth become the recipient of a William Mercer Wilson Medal.
A.W.Stonier 2003
Bro. Albert William Stonier was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 7th by R.W. Bro. J. David Innes.
In June, the Lodge celebrated”Bro. Marven Firth Night” to recognize his work in the Community, his church, Masonry and the Shrine. A dinner in his honour was held before the meeting. During the meeting he was presented with an Honorary Life Membership. The work of the evening was the raising of Bro. Paul Campbell who had benefited from the work of the Shrine.
In September, the Lodge received visitors from Tudor Rose Lodge No. 7590 in Liverpool England, St. Francis Lodge No. 2 in Smith Falls and Haymarket Lodge No. 213 in Virginia and Englehart Lodge No.534 in Englehart.
In October, approval was obtained to circulate the Lodge Summons via e-mail.
In November, one application for affiliation and five applications for Initiation were received. R.W. Bro. Keith Legge, the Worshipful Master of Doric Lodge No. 455 in Little Current led his team of officers in the initiation of Mr. James Michael Hudson.
Rev. Shelley Kennedy, the wife of Senior Deacon, Bro. David Kennedy officiated at the Lodge’s Annual Memorial Service prior to the December meeting.
On February 4th 2004, M.W. Bro. Donald H. Mumby attended and assisted by R.W. Bro. John W. Hodder, D.D.G.M., Sudbury-Manitoulin and W. Bro. Stonier, invested Bro. Marven Firth with his William Mercer Wilson Medal, a special certificate of recognition and a copy of The First Grand Master. The Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies led the Brethren in giving Grand Honours to Bro. Firth – three times. Bro. Firth read a poem of thanks and then returned to his seat in the East. Only five are presented each year, and Bro. Firth was the first to receive one this year. The decision as to who may qualify for such recognition is determined by a committee of three Past Grand Masters acting independently. Their decision has to be unanimous. As this was “Step-up-Night” Bro. Paavo Liukko sat in the near-east and led his team in the Initiation of Mr. Stephen Robert Fleming. The Grand Master presented Bro. Fleming with the symbol of Canadian Masonry, a pin with a square and compass on a red maple leaf. M.W. Bro. Mumby, R.W. Bro. Hodder and W. Bro. Stonier presented Master Mason Certificates to Bros. James Gies, Richard England and Paul Campbell respectively. Bro. Stephen Fleming represented the fifth generation of the Fleming Family to become members of Nickel Lodge.
R.W. Bro. Hodder returned in March for his Official Visit at which time Bro. James Michael Hudson was passed to the Fellowcraft Degree. Bro. Paavo Liukko presented Bro. Reijo Luoma with the Lodge’s “Light-Sabre”, laser pen used in the explanation ‘the Senior Warden’s Chart. There were at least 30 Brethren present to witness this passing. (A previous pen had disappeared.)
At an Emergent Meeting that month, W. Bro. Doumergue Horace led his team in the Initiation of Mr. Larry Peter Solski.
In April, the Lodge agreed to pay for the re-carpeting of the Lodge-room. This project would be done in recognition of the sesquicentennial of Grand Lodge. R.W. Bro. Hodder and the District Chairman of Blood Donors presented W. Bro. Robert Fleming with a certificate from Grand Lodge in recognition of his 200 donations. W. Bro. Robert E. Bryson, V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin, R.W. Bro. Frederick S. Foote and V.W. Fred W. Bright were each presented with 50 year membership jewels and Bro. Howard J. Jones was presented with a 60 year jewel. It was reported that V.W. Bro. Bright had been recently made an Honorary Life Member of Espanola Lodge No. 527 in recognition of his many years of assistance to that Lodge.
P.E Liukko 2004
Bro. Paavo Eric Liukko was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 5th by W. Bro. Grant Boyce.
In June, Bro. Oliver Coley was presented with his 50 year jewel. He had been ill and unable to attend for the presentations at Installation.
In August, the Annual Lodge Picnic was held at the camp of Bro. David Kennedy, nestled in the shadows of “Million Dollar Homes”, with the full benefit of a bright blue Herbie sitting at the property’s edge. Bro. Kennedy had provided directions to the camp with a caution about NOT turning left into the Algoma (mental hospital) Sanitorium. One might need to go there after the picnic.
In September, W. Bro. Bernard Villeneuve brought his team of officers from Friendship Lodge for the 45th Reciprocal Visit and initiated Mr. Robert William McQuirter.
In October, the Lodge approved the amendment to the By-laws with regard to the Nickel Lodge Bursaries being $1500.00 each, and would be donated to a student at Laurentian University and at Cambrian College, subject to possible supplementing of the amounts, if Lodge finances permitted.
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Fifty year pins and cards from Grand Lodge were presented to W. Bro. Grant Boyce and Bros. Oliver Coley, Jacob Kallio and Vernon Young with a sixty year pin and card for W. Bro. Robert E. Bryson. Eight other 50 year cards would be delivered or sent to other Brethren unable to attend as well as a 60 year pin and card to another Brother.
At an Emergent Meeting that month, W. Bro. Robert Storie led his team of Past Masters in the raising of Bro. Stephen Fleming.
 October 2004 |
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In November, W. Bro. Robert E. Bryson was presented with his 60 year Membership Bar for his Jubilee Medal. As a result of conservative estimates for the budgeting of monies available for the Nickel Masonic Lodge Bursary Endowments to Laurentian University and Cambrian College, there was a surplus of $557.40. This was donated to the District Charity Project- the Bursary Fund for the Medical School located at Laurentian University.
In December, W. Bro. Grant Boyce was presented with his 50 year Jubilee Medal. The work of W. Bro. Robert Fleming in organizing the Annual Memorial Service and Bro. David Kennedy’s “Repast” were recognized. It was noted that South-east Asia had been struck by a Tsunami, and over 150,000 people had perished. $500.00 was donated to the Canadian Red Cross to help with its relief efforts.
W. Bro. Storie reported at the Committee of General Purposes Meeting in February, that a City By-law Enforcement Officer had attended Belrock with a ticket book in hand. Belrock was considered a Non-Smoking Facility. There had been a complaint.
R.W. Bro. Wah Chung attended in March for his Official Visit at which time Bro. Robert William McQuirter was passed to the Fellowcraft Degree. Nickel Lodge was recognized for it’s donation of $17,500.00 to the O.S.T.O.F. Phase 11- Nickel Lodge Bursary Fund by the Cambrian Foundation.
At the April, General Purposes Meeting, the Worshipful Master-elect, presented his tentative schedule for the year, which included the various Committees for the year ahead.
R.A. Luoma 2005
Bro. Reijo Allan Luoma was installed as the Worshipful Master on Saturday May 7th by W. Bro. Robert Storie. Bro. Peter Adams, a recently affiliated member to Nickel Lodge, presented the Master and Wardens with new sounding blocks for their pedestals, each containing a 150th Anniversary of our Grand Lodge coin. A Ladies Night followed.
At the June Meeting, “The Howey Jewel” By-law was passed. W.H. Howey was the first Master of Nickel Lodge and his Past Masters Jewel had been recently located. It would now be presented to the Immediate Past Master at Installation. He would wear it for one year and then receive his own jewel.
At the G.P. meeting in August, it was decided that the Lodge would have “Degree Coordinators”. The Junior Warden for the firsts, the Senior Warden for seconds, and the Worshipful Master for thirds.
In September, as the Saturday afternoon Installation followed by the Ladies Night had been deemed a success, a Notice of Motion was presented to amend the By-Laws to provide for this regular meeting change. It would eventually be passed and approved. R.W. Bro. J. David Innes, assisted by the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Allan Burns, W. Bros. Liukko, Luoma and Donald Moxam of Friendship Lodge No. 691 invested V.W. Bro. Robert Storie as a Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge. W. Bro. Robert Fleming provided V.W. Bro. Storie’s Craft history and read the submission provided by the Grand Master as to the petition for the appointment, which included Bro. Storie’s contribution to community, Masonry and Nickel Lodge. He also referred to portions of the General Charge in describing V.W. Bro. Robert Storie. Music was re-introduced to the Lodge by means of a lap-top computer and CD. It provided a pleasant atmosphere during the meeting. W. Bro. Donald Moxam led his team of officers in passing Bro. Shawn Mroczynski to the Fellowcraft Degree on the occasion of the 46th Reciprocal Visit of Friendship Lodge.
In October, the Lodge recognized the Passing to the Grand Lodge Above, of M.W. Bro. Norman Edward Byrne, who presided at the Lodge’s Rededication in 1991, and donated $500.00 to the Katrina Relief Fund through the Masonic Service Association. Hurricane Katrina had caused devastation to New Orleans and area in August.
In November, they approved a donation of $500.00 to the Canadian Red Cross to assist the India/Pakistan Relief Effort. Nickel Lodge was recognized as winning two District Awards. The Joe Lessor Attendance Award for improved attendance at it’s regular meetings and also for the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors Award for the most blood donations in the year. The Lodge learned that Grand Lodge had approved the wearing of Regalia at Remembrance Day services and members were encouraged to do so. W. Bro. Michael Dowling, Worshipful Master in 1999, led his team in the Initiation of Mr. Thomas Morris. In November it was reported that Nickel Lodge’s Website had received Grand Lodge’s approval.
The Annual Memorial Night saw the return engagement of Rev. Shelley Kennedy. W. Bro. and Noble Mervyn Lees lead the Sudbury Shrine Club Choir and the Kampana Bells provided entertainment.
In January, the Brethren also observed the passing of W. Bro. Robert E. Bryson, who had been the senior living Past Master of the Lodge. He had fifty plus years a Past Master and sixty plus years a Mason.
R.W. Bro. Allan Burns attended in March for his Official Visit at which time Bro. Shawn Mroczynski was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.
D.W. Kennedy 2006
Bro. David William Kennedy was installed as the Worshipful Master on May 6th by W. Bro. Michael Dowling.
At the Emergent Meeting that month, R.W. Bro. and Noble Robert Gordon led the Sudbury Shrine Masonic Degree Team in the raising of Bro. Thomas Morris.
In June, a collective ballot was taken on three applicants for initiation. This was probably a first; for Nickel Lodge to have a collective ballot and the results of the ballot was favourable.
On July 2nd, the Annual Picnic was held at the Kennedy Compound (David and Shelley’s) on the shores of Lake Ramsey
In October, W. Bro. Oliver Koski and the members of Friendship Lodge passed Bro. Terry Beange to the Fellowcraft Degree, on the occasion of their 47th Annual Visit.
Past Master’s Night was celebrated under the leadership of W. Bro. Gregory Newson, Worshipful Master in 2000, with the passing of Bro. Marc Petrie.
In February, the members approved a donation of $100.00 to Rideau Lodge No. 460 in Kingston with their building renovation project.
The Official Visit of R.W. Bro. Peter Gordon was the occasion in which W. Bro. Tom Lloyd was presented with his 50 year membership pin and W. Bro. Doumergue Horace with his 25 year pin. Bro. Horace informed the Brethren that it was at R.W. Bro. Stan Gordon (Peter’s father)’s Official Visit that he had been initiated. Bro. Craig Yeates, who had recently affiliated with the Lodge, stood in as the candidate for the exemplification of the first degree.
In April, W. Bro. Kennedy presented W. Bro. Milt Fleming with a Lewis Jewel, who then presented his son- W. Bro. Robert Fleming with a Lewis Jewel, who then presented his son- Bro. Stephen Fleming with a Lewis Jewel. R.W. Bro. David Innes read a detailed charge explaining the significance of the Lewis Jewel.
G.O. Nichols 2007
Bro. George Oliver Nichols was installed as the Worshipful Master in May 5th by W. Bro. Paavo Liukko.
In October, W. Bro. Sam Khoury with the assistance of members from Friendship Lodge , initiated Mr. Patrick Brouzes on their 48th Annual Visit.
In November, W. Bro. Barry Greasley, Worshipful Master in 2001 conducted a crew of Past Masters in the passing of Bro. Eric Lafleur. The District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Edward Rennie reported that there will be fundraising for W. Bro. David Kennedy, so he wouldn’t be sooooo cold under his kilt and the rest of us would be spared the blinding view.
The Annual Memorial Service recognized the Passing to the Grand Lodge Above of nine members. It was reported that Mattawa Lodge which had sponsored Nickel Lodge, was now meeting in North Bay. A donation from the Lodge Benevolent Fund was made to a Brother who was in a difficult state.
At Step-Up-Night, Bro. Clive Stephenson and his team, raised Bro. Bernard Fransen to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.
R.W. Bro. Edward Rennie attended for his Official Visit at which time R.W. Bro. John David Innes was passed to the Fellowcraft Degree as he hadn’t been passed since 1964. Bro. Richard England presented the Veteran’s Medal of R.W. Bro. W.H. Howey (1st Master) to the Lodge, which he had purchased on eBay on behalf of the Lodge.
C.D. Stephenson 2008
Bro. Clive David Stephenson was installed as the Worshipful Master in May 3rd by W. Bro. Al Stonier. An announcement was made that an elevator fund had been created and that a new kitchen was going to be built.
Past Master’s Night was held at the October Emergent Meeting, with W. Bro. Chris Kemp in the East at which time Bro. Don Ross was “Passed to the Fellowcraft Degree”. W. Bro. Kemp had the Past Masters provide a small history of the P.M. Jewel they wore. It was nice to see W. Bro. Robert Fontaine and Bro. Bill Crawford attend and take part in the Work.
In November, the “The Veteran Masons” were recognized by a special evening. A donation of a $1000.00 was made to the Elevator Fund. Algoma Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star was recognized for their $10,000.00 and Java Guild for their $3,000.00 donation to the Fund.
The November Emergent Meeting was the occasion for the visit from Friendship Lodge with W. Bro. Lyle Redden officiating at the Passing of Bro. Fred Kirk. Friendship Lodge was presented with a Kneeling Cushion designed by Bro. Stephen Fleming and made by W. Bro. Milt Fleming, to mark the occasion of the visit.
In December, Nickel Lodge made a rare visit to Espanola Lodge in order to accompany R.W. Bro. Robert Fleming on the occasion of his Official Visit.
The Official Visit of our own R.W. Bro. Robert James Fleming marked the occasion for V.W. Bro. J. Gilpin being presented with 60 year pin. He had been initiated at the Official Visit on March 2nd 1949. Bro. Fred Kirk was made a Master Mason and made a donation to the Lodge’s Benevolent Fund as symbol of his appreciation.
B.N. Howe 2009
On Saturday May 2nd ; W. Bro. Reijo Luoma, served as Installing Master for the Installation of Bro. Brian Howe as Worshipful Master.
At the September Meeting, V.W. Bro. Milt Fleming be escorted to the East where he was invested with his Collar by R.W. Bro. Roy Eaton, his apron by son, R. W. Bro. Rob Fleming and a pin by grandson, Bro. Stephen Fleming. It was also announced that Nickel Lodge was the winner of the Joe Lesser Blood Donor award and the new Journeyman’s Award (for visitation) during the District Meeting at Grand Lodge in July.
The October Meeting marked the 50th Reciprocal visit between Nickel Lodge and Friendship Lodge. W. Bro. Brian Howe passed the gavel to W. Bro. Brian Post who led his team of Officers in the Initiation of Mr. Brian Leduc into the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry. W. Bro. Post suggested that there has not been a documented case of any other Lodge in Ontario with such a long record of visitations….so we will claim this as our own until proven otherwise. W. Bro. Brian Post and W. Bro. Howe presented a Certificate of Appreciation to V. W. Bro. John Jellicoe Gilpin in recognition of his devotion to both Nickel and Friendship Lodges for his faithfully attending and partaking in “50 Years of Reciprocal Visits”. A week later Nickel Lodge made their 50th Visit to Friendship Lodge and Initiated Mr. Anthony Biro.
The Emergent Meeting; held on Wednesday, the 18th of November, was the occasion of our Annual Past Master’s Night. After a repast of Wild Boar Stew, W. Bro. Al Stonier sat in the East and led his team with the Passing of his son-in-law Bro. Chris Marlok to the Fellowcraft Degree.
At the February Meeting; Lodge Officers moved forward one chair and sitting in the Near-East for Step-Up-Night, Senior Warden- Bro. Richard England passed Bro. John Mason to the Fellowcraft degree.
The March Meeting marked the occasion of the Official Visit of R. W. Bro. Roy Eaton District Deputy Grand Master for Sudbury – Manitoulin District.
R.L.P. England 2010
On May 5th; W. Bro. Paavo Liukko served as Installing Master for the Installation of Bro. Richard England as Worshipful Master.
At our September meeting; we welcomed our own R.W. Bro. Albert W. Stonier, D.D.G.M. for Sudbury-Manitoulin District. R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming; who had initiated the Journeyman’s Award to recognize the Lodge with the best turn out of members visiting other Lodges, presented it to the Worshipful Master and W. Bro. Howe, for the second year in a row.
In October, W. Bro. Samuel J. Khoury led his team of Officers from Friendship Lodge on the occasion of their 51st Reciprocal Visit, who initiated Mr. John Michael Reynolds into Freemasonry. R.W. Bro. J. David Innes, the candidate’s uncle, obligated him.
The November Meeting was the occasion of the Past Master’s Night and led by W. Bro. Paavo Liukko and raised Bro. John Mason to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The evening was also recognized As being the 49th year of V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin being a Past Master.
The Annual Memorial Service was held on Saturday December 11th.
At the January Meeting, W. Bro. Teddy Burns, the Worshipful Master of Lorne Lodge No. 622 in Chapleau presented the Worshipful Master with a “Traveling Gavel” which, when standing on its’ head, stood about six feet high. It had been originally circulated by M.W. Bro. Donald Mumby. Mr. Mike Rousseau was “Initiated into Masonry”.
At the February meeting, Bro. John Reynolds was “Passed to the Fellowcraft Degree”.
The March Meeting was the occasion of the Official Visit of the D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Albert W. Stonier and witnessed the Initiation of Mr. Gareth Allard into Freemasonry. R.W. Bro. Innes presented V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin with a plaque from Grand Lodge to recognize his 50 years as a Past Master. R.W. Bro. Innes reported that Bro. Howard Jones had celebrated his 70th Anniversary in Masonry on April 2nd (1941).
P.E. Liukko 2011
In the afternoon of Saturday May 2nd, R.W. Bro. Innes led a team of Past Masters and members in the Installation of W. Bro. Paavo E. Liukko as Worshipful Master of the Lodge.
At the June Meeting, during a “Call Off”, the Community Services Representative from Canadian Blood Services was admitted and presented the Lodge with an Award to recognize their 30 years of participation with the Canadian Red Cross/ Canadian Blood Services. Several Members of Espanola Lodge No. 527 were present for a rare visit to Nickel Lodge. With the exception of the June Meeting, two Lodges usually meeting on the same evening.
At the September Meeting, the Worshipful Master assisted by the D.D.G.M., R. W. Bro. Samuel J. Khoury invested V.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson with his apron, collar and jewel as a Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge. Bro. Gareth Allard was “Passed to the Fellowcraft Degree”. The Worshipful Master reported that he would be delivering the Travelling Gavel to Shuniah Lodge No. 287 in Thunder Bay on September 27th.
In October, Bro. John Reynolds was “Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason”.
In November, W. Bro. Reijo Luoma led a team of Past Masters in the Initiation of Mr. Rock Palmer.
An Emergent Meeting was held in November at which time a discussion; led by Bro. Craig Yeates and assisted by R. W. Bro. Robert Fleming, with regards to the Lodge pursuing a Cornerstone Lodge designation. The Worshipful Master stressed the importance of the Brethren knowing what was expected of them and that two-way communication was necessary between the Officers and Past Masters.
The December Meeting was held on Thursday the 1st in order for the Brethren of the Lodge to attend Espanola Lodge No. 527 on the occasion of the Official Visit of D.D.G.M.
In January, W. Bro. Rob Lipic led his team of officers from Friendship Lodge for their 52nd Reciprocal Visit in passing Bro. Rock Palmer to the Fellowcraft Degree.
Step-up-Night was held in February with Bro. Stephen Fleming sitting in the Near-East conducted the exemplification of the Second Degree with Bro. Rock Palmer volunteering as the candidate.
In March, R.W. Bro. Saliem J. Khoury made his Official Visit at which time Bro. Rock Palmer was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason.
At an Emergent Meeting held on March 21st, W. Bro. Bruce A.D. Anderson and Bro. Paul Ruff with their 50 year pins in a Ceremony developed by Grand Lodge.
S.R. Fleming 2012
On May 2nd, Bro. Stephen Robert Fleming was installed as the Worshipful Master by his Grandfather, V.W. Bro. Milton J. Fleming who was assisted by his son, R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming and members of Nickel Lodge and several Brethren of other Lodges from across the Province. He became the third Bro. Fleming to be installed as the Worshipful Master of the Lodge and represents the fifth generation of the Fleming Family to be a member of the Lodge.
In July, Nickel Lodge was recognized by Grand Lodge for it’s Lodge Website by awarding it with a Merit Award.
The October meeting was the occasion of Past Masters Night and a team led by W. Bro. David Kennedy, initiated Mr. Glenn Mersereau.
On Tuesday, October 9th at Java Guild, a Gold Honour Award was presented to R.W. Bro. Robert Fleming of Nickel Lodge No. 427. The members of Excalibur York Rite College No. 101 that meets at the Belrock Masonic Centre nominated R.W. Bro. Fleming in recognition for his outstanding service to Freemasonry. Distinguished Bro. Paavo E. Liukko, O.P.C. Deputy Grand Governor presented the award on behalf of Excalibur College. A brother in the Masonic fraternity may be presented a Gold Honour Award for rendering faithful and outstanding service to any branch of Freemasonry. A recipient need not be a member of a York Rite College nor is it required that he have any York Rite affiliation. It is worthy to note that only three other awards have been presented in the north they are Arthur Haley of North Bay, Eric T. Moore and Keith I. Jordan of Sudbury. W. Bro. Paavo E. Liukko a past Master of Nickel Lodge No. 427 and past Governor of Excalibur York Rite College No. 101 was admitted to the Order of the Purple Cross at the annual assembly of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America held in July 2012. Dist. Bro. Paavo E. Liukko is now the O.P.C. Deputy Grand Governor for Ontario North.
As a result of the Open House held by the Lodge in the Fall, several applications for Memberships by Initiation were received and Lodge became very busy.
At the Meeting in December, a review of presentations and it’s organization were discussed in preparation for future events.
The January Meeting celebrated the 53rd Reciprocal Visit of Friendship Lodge. W. Bro. Roger Kitching and his Team initiated Mr. Justin J.R. Proulx.
The February Meeting was Step-up-Night for Senior Warden, Bro. Tom King. He led his Team in the Initiation of Mr. Michael Edger.
On Saturday evening of the 23rd of February, members of Nickel Lodge hosted a “Tough Times Dinner” for the D.D.G.M.’s Project 2506. Spouses and Masons and their spouses and friends enjoyed a dinner of weiners and beans (including hot dog buns), jello and rice pudding. This was followed by a Charlie Chaplin black and white silent movie. The evening included great fellowship. The admission was a $20.00 per person donation to the “Masonic Foundation of Ontario – Project 2506”.
On Wednesday March 6th ; R.W. Bro. Keith I. Jordan, D.D.G.M. made his Official Visit. After dinner, the Brethren adjourned to the Lodge Room for the Initiation of Mr. Phillipe Ruff. His Grandfather, Bro. Paul Ruff presented him with the Working Tools and his Uncle, Bro. Paul Ruff Jr. of Gothic Lodge No. 608 in Lindsay gave the Charge to the Candidate.
Proceeds from the Tough Times Dinner were presented to R.W. Bro. Jordan and his Project Chairman, W. Bro. Roger Kitching. Though the presentation cheque indicated an amount of $1260.00, the actual donation to the D.D.G.M.’s Project – “Feed the Hungry” was $1300.00.
On May 1st, many Brethren from the District travelled to Espanola Lodge No. 527 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of V.W. Bro. Frederick W. Bright’s Membership in Masonry. After dinner, W. Bro. Stephen Fleming and W. Bro. Wayne White of Espanola Lodge each presented Bro. Bright with certificates to recognize his achievement. He was then accorded Grand Honours..
T.E. King 2013
On Saturday afternoon of May 4th, Bro. Thomas E. King was installed as the Worshipful Master by his sponsor V.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson. A Ladies Night followed with a dinner and live entertainment provided by “Elvis”, “Buddy Holly” and a “Blues Brother”.
At Grand Lodge in July, R.W. Rob Fleming was appointed President of the MASONIChip Corporation and Bro. Mike Lalonde the Administrator for the MASONIChip Ontario.
Past Master’s Night was held at the October Regular Meeting with W. Bro. George O. Nichols presiding in the passing of Bro. John Leonard to the Fellowcraft Degree.
As noted in the Sudbury Star, Finnish Ambassador Charles Murto, along with (R.W. Bro.) Brian Koivu (Algonquin Lodge No. 536), president of the Sudbury Finnish Rest Home Society, presented the Order of the Lion of Finland to (Bro.) Gerry Lougheed Jr. (Nickel Lodge No. 427) at Finlandia Village, 233 Fourth Ave, in the new Voima Hall. The Order of the Lion of Finland is one of three official orders in Finland. It was founded on Sept. 11, 1942, and is awarded for civilian and military merit.
The January Meeting celebrated the 54th Reciprocal Visit of Friendship Lodge. W. Bro. John Robbie and his Team, Passed Bro. Steven Stobo to the Fellowcraft Degree.
The Official Visit of our District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. L. Clair Bracken was held on the occasion of our Regular Meeting in April at which time Bro. Angus Morris was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The O.V. not held during the Regular Meeting in March at the request of the D.D.G.M.
T.E. King 2014
On Wednesday, May 7th, W. Bro. Thomas E. King was re-installed as the Worshipful Master by his other sponsor W. Bro. David Kennedy. Masons that were initiated several years ago were not available to progress through the Chairs due to other commitments. For the next few years, Past Masters will have to fill the senior Chairs until the more recent Initiates have become more experienced in the operation of the Lodge.
On September 3rd; R.W. Bro. David A. Hodgins, CD,FCF., the D.D.G.M. for Sudbury-Manitoulin District presented W. Bro. Tom King with the W.J.C. Noble Blood Donors Award, in recognition of it’s support for the Blood Donor Programme in the area.
At the October Meeting; W. Bro. King passed the gavel to V.W. Bro. Clive Stephenson, who then led a team of Past Masters in the raising of Bro. Steven Stobo to the Sublime Degree of a Mason Mason.
At the February Regular Meeting of our Lodge; W. Bro. John Miszczak, the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge, led his team of Officers in the Raising of Bro. John Leonard to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. This completed the second half of the 55th Reciprocal Visits between the two Lodges.
On March 4th, our District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. David A. Hodgins, CD, FCF made his Official Visit to Nickel Lodge. As our Worshipful Master was absent due to an urgent family matter, W. Bro. Stephen Fleming presided over the meeting and led the Officers in the Passing of Bro. Larry Paguandas to the Fellowcraft Degree.
On Sunday April 12th, the Grand Master of Manitoba, M.W. Bro. Stano Spina, W. Bro. Rich Lowen, the Worshipful Master of St. John’s Lodge #4 in Winnipeg and some other Officers met with W. Bro. Ab Mallet and presented him with his 70 year certificate, pin and card on behalf of our Lodge. Bro. Mallet was described as being a very interesting man, 98 years old and still active. He had retired from Investors at the age of 91. Bro. Mallet requested that he be sent a copy of the Summons from the Lodge and Grand Lodge as we would like to keep abreast of things. M.W. Bro. Spina and W. Bro. Lowen advised him that he would become an Honorary Lifetime Member of St. John’s Lodge and that affiliation forms would be presented at the next meeting.
S.R. Fleming 2015
On May 2nd, W. Bro. Stephen Robert Fleming was installed as the Worshipful Master for a second term, this time by his Father, R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming, who was assisted by members of Nickel Lodge and several Brethren from sister Lodges. W. Bro. Paavo Liukko was thanked for arranging the Installing Board and assistants. A Ladies Night followed with a dinner and live entertainment.
The Annual Memorial Night was held on June 3rd to recognize the Passing to the Grand Lodge Above of Brethren of Nickel Lodge.
On the Friday evening of June 26th, the Lodge recognized two members by celebrating the 60 year memberships in Masonry of W. Bro. Grant Boyce and Bro. Jack Kallio. Family and friends were invited to a dinner in the Belrock Masonic Centre Banquet Room. After the dinner, everyone was invited into the Lodge Room to witness and participate in the presentation of 60 pins and certificates. Bro. Jack Kallio was pinned by his son and Brother, Bro. Jack with his 60 year button and Mrs. Joanne Boyce pinned W. Bro. Boyce with his 60 year button. There were 44 Masons and 35 Visitors in attendance. Bro. Gary Bate of Sudbury Lodge No. 658 accompanied the visitors; who were not Freemasons, outside the Lodge room. The Lodge held an Emergent Meeting; at which time W. Bro. Boyce and Bro. Kallio were accorded Grand Honours three times.
On Sunday September 13th, an Emergent Meeting was held to recognize the Passing to the Grand Lodge Above, of William Wilson Medal Recipient, Bro. Marven Firth. His son Colin acted as Masters of Ceremonies. He provided a retrospective on the life of Bro. Firth. Several other family members provided insight into his life. This was accompanied by a slide show. A lunch was provided by Nickel Lodge to the 15 members, 23 Masons from other Lodges and 29 ladies, family and friends. A Memorial Service was held in the Lodge. A graveside service was held at the Civic Memorial Cemetery, 365 Second Avenue in Sudbury, with a Shrine Honour Guard and musical accompaniment by District Piper, Bro. John Leonard/Assistant Secretary.
At the October meeting, W. Bro. Brian Howe led his team of Past Masters in conferring the Master Masons Degree on Bro. Clayton Pearson.
W. Bro. Ryan Lipic, the Worshipful Master of Friendship Lodge, led his team of Officers in the Initiation of Mr. Johnathon Levesque into Masonry at the November Meeting. This completed the first half of the 56th Reciprocal Visits between the two Lodges.
In February, led by our Worshipful Master, Members travelled to Friendship Lodge No. 691 and were greeted by W. Bro. Ryan Lipic, for the second half of the 2015-2016 Reciprocal Visit at which time they Passed Bro. Richard Lawson to become the newest Fellowcraft in Friendship Lodge.
On March 2nd, the D.D.G.M. of Sudbury-Manitoulin District; R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson made his Official Visit to our Lodge to witness the Passing of Bro. John Levesque to the Fellowcraft Degree. Many members of the District were in attendance to support our D.D..G.M. Espanola Lodge, whose Regular Meeting is the same evening as our Lodge, chose to reciprocate the favour of visiting for the Official Visit as Nickel Lodge members had attended the Official Visit to their Lodge in December.
For a few years, our Lodge has been collecting funds at each of our light lunches that follow our meetings. Such funds are designated to help feed the hungry. This year, the members chose to give the funds collected in the past twelve months to the food bank fund at the Parish of St. Matthew’s and St. Timothy’s. Their catchment area has recently expanded. Our Junior Warden, Bro. John Reynolds, presented $534.40 to the Parish on behalf of the Lodge.
J.D. Innes 2016
On May 7th, 2016, forty-three years, four months and ten days after first being Installed in the Chair of King Solomon on Wednesday, December 27th, 1972, (R.W.) Bro. John David Innes has returned to serve a second term as the Worshipful Master of Nickel Lodge. This time, he was Installed by R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming.
While R.W. Bro. Clive David Stevenson was attending to his duties at Grand Lodge as our District Deputy Grand Master; information was received that he, in his capacity of Ill. Bro. Clive Stephenson, 33 Degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, had been selected to be a recipient of York Rite’s highest award; the prestigious Order of the Purple Cross. Apparently this award will be presented to twelve members from Canada including six from Ontario.
At the Regular Meeting of our Lodge on September 7th, Friendship Lodge made their 57th Reciprocal Visit for the Raising of Bro. Johnathon Levesque in the Master Mason Degree.
At the October Meeting; V.W. Bro. Reijo A. Luoma was invested as a Grand Steward of our Grand Lodge. Approval was granted to Algonquin Lodge No. 536 to have the use of the gilded Working Tools of our Lodge, pending their re-dedication as a 100 year old Lodge. W. Bro. Richard England, our Worshipful Master in 2000-2001 led a team of Past Masters in the Raising of Bro. Jordan Douglas to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason.
The February Regular Meeting was Step-up-Night and Senior Warden, Bro. John Reynolds led his team of Officers in the Initiation of Mr. Steven Wilson, with many of the new members participating in The Work.
The first Wednesday in March has been the traditional meeting night to celebrate the Official Visit of the District Deputy Grand Master. It had to be cancelled due to a blizzard. The Emergent Meeting Night / or Committee of General Purpose Meeting Night was then scheduled for the Official Visit. Due health reasons, R.W. Bro. Jason B. Ashely, was not able to attend as his health had deteriorated to the extent that he was no longer capable of fulfilling the duties of his office. The Grand Master; M.W. Bro. John C. Green appointed R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson, to serve in fulfilling those duties to the completion of the Masonic year. Under the leadership of our Worshipful Master, Mr. Chris Carr was initiated into Masonry.
J.M. Reynolds 2017
On Saturday May 6th, Bro. John Michael Reynolds was installed as the Worshipful Master of our Lodge, by his uncle R.W. Bro. J. David Innes. He then called the Lodge from Labour to Refreshment at which time his family was invited to enter the Lodge and his mother continued a tradition by presenting him with his gavel. The 2017-2018 Officers were then invested upon resuming Labour. A bar-b-que was held that evening to celebrate the event.
On Wednesday, September 6th, 2017 was a busy night with the Mayoral Proclamation that today was Freemason’s Day in acknowledging the 300th anniversary since the formal founding of the United Grand Lodge of England, in London, June 3rd, 1717 and the first of two of the Reciprocal Visits with Friendship Lodge No. 691 where they initiated Mr. Adam Rennie for Nickel Lodge No. 427. Nickel Lodge also had the pleasure of its first fraternal visit by the D.D.G.M., the R. W. Bro. Rejean A. Daigle.
On Wednesday October 4th, W. Bro. Paavo Liukko, received the gavel from the Worshipful Master and led his team of Past Masters in exemplifying the Entered Apprentice Degree. As the original candidate; Mr. Jonathon Kpazai had not been able to attend, Bro. David Gillingham, became the representative candidate.
At our Regular Meeting on March 7th, our District Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Rejean A. Daigle made his Official Visit to our Lodge, at which time Bro. Chris Carr was raised in the Master Masons Degree. R.W. Bro. Daigle gave a brief talk regarding ‘judging a book by its cover’ using recent examples he had seen within the Craft.
Mr. Jonathon W. Kpazai was initiated on Wednesday April 18th, 2018. Other work was the proving of their apron by Bro. Angus Morris and Bro. Chris Carr. Rounding out the busy night were elections for the ensuing Masonic year. A snow storm (29 inches of snow) on the first Wednesday of the month required the regular meeting to be moved to the emergent night.
J.M. Reynolds 2018
Having received a Dispensation from the Grand Master, the Lodge Installation was held on Wednesday evening of the 2nd of May, after a delicious roast beef dinner. W. Bro. Reynolds had been re-elected as Master for a consecutive term; thus it was not necessary to conduct certain portions of the Ceremony. It made for a short, but exciting meeting. A new grip was presented on five occasions during the Investiture of Officers. It would consist of having the Investing Officer extending his left hand under the right arm of the Officer being invested and placing it on his back. The right hand of the Investing Officer was then extended over the left shoulder of the Officer being invested and placing it on the back of the officer being invested. The same grip was completed by the Officer being invested returning it to the Investing Officer. Bro. Angus Morris performed this same grip when he invested his Brother and father – Bro. Thomas Morris as Senior Warden. Bro. Thomas Morris gave the same grip when he invested his Brother and son – Bro. Angus Morris as Junior Warden. The same grip was used by R.W. Bro. Robert Fleming when he invested his Brother and son – W. Bro. Stephen Fleming as Chaplain. The same was completed by W. Bro. Stephen Fleming at the time he invested R.W. Bro. Robert Fleming as Secretary. Again, it was performed when W. Bro. Kipton Hawley invested his Brother and son – Bro. Kevin Hawley as Organist.
At Grand Lodge on July 18th, W. Bro. Paavo E. Liukko was elected District Deputy Grand Master. He announced the appointment of W. Bro. Tom E. King as the District Secretary.
In September, we learned that R.W. Bro. Rob Fleming had been appointed President of the MasoniCh.I.P. Foundation, for his fourth term.
At the September 5th Regular Meeting, R.W. Paavo E. Liukko made his first fraternal visit to his Lodge and assisted the Worshipful Master in presenting Bro. Gerry Thompson a Certificate recognizing his 60 years a Mason. That evening, Bro. Greg Blomme was Passed to the Second Degree.
At the September 12th Regular Meeting of Friendship Lodge No 691 our Lodge attended for the first part of the 59th of reciprocal visit at which time the Nickel Lodge Brethren exemplified a Passing to the Fellowcraft Degree with the assistance of Bro. Blomme.
T.F. Morris 2019
On May 1st, R.W. Bro. Clive D. Stephenson F.C.F. his team of Past Masters installed Bro. Thomas F. Morris as the Worshipful Master and invested the Officers of the Lodge.
At the Regular Meeting held on June 5th ; R.W. Bro. Robert J. Fleming on behalf of the Worshipful Master, conducted the Annual Memorial Service for Brethren of Nickel Lodge who has Passed to the Grand Lodge Above in the past Masonic year.
An Emergent Meeting was held on June 19th at which time, Mr. Geoffrey Lawrence Witzke was initiated into Masonry.
On September 4th; V.W. Bro. Thomas E. King was invested with his regalia of a Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario by R.W. Bro. Robert J. Lipic D.D.G.M. and R.W. Bro. Paavo Liukko. He was also presented with the Past Masters Jewel previously worn by V.W. Bro. John J. Gilpin. Bro. Ghislain Cotton was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.
On September 18th, members of Friendship Lodge attended our Lodge to celebrate the second part of the 60th year of reciprocal visits and initiated Mr. Kristian Keller.
W. Bro. Lionel Rudd, the Lodge’s Winter Clothing Appeal Coordinator requested that the Brethren gather surplus or gently used or new cold weather/winter coats, jackets, parkas, sweaters/warm tops, boots, socks, hats and gloves over the Christmas period. This included men and women’s clothes. He requested that they brought to Java Guild on January 28th and after lunch they will be taken to the Elgin Street Mission. During the Christmas period, a drop-off box would be located in the lower cloakroom at the Sudbury Masonic Centre. He requested that they be placed in plastic bags and be in a clean, ready to use condition. — Sudbury-Manitoulin District Blog (December Issue)
The February 5th 2020 Regular Meeting was Step-up Night and Bro. Angus Morris, Acting Worshipful Master sat in the Near East where he directed his team of Officers in the Passing of Bro. Kristian William Keller to the Fellowcraft Degree.
On Thursday March 12t, our Worshipful Master circulated an email to advise the Brethren that he cancelled the March General Purpose Meeting, in light of the Coronavris. He advised that he would call over the weekend to discuss any business that needs the Lodge’s immediate attention. He withheld a decision on whether or not to hold the April Regular Meeting until next week.
During the winter of 2019-2020, our planet faced a deadly disease known as “nova coronavirus” or “COVID-19” and it is believed to have had its’ origin in “Wuhan, China”. It spread so fast across the globe that it was eventually declared a “PANDEMIC”. This virus caused severe acute respiratory problems. Hundreds of thousands of people suffered from it under-went a quarantine period of 14 days. Thousands died. As the disease spread, so did people’s concern about catching it. The streets of Sudbury were described as empty. By March 10th, at least one man in Sudbury had contracted it while attending Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention in Toronto.
Not often does the Minutes of the Committee of General Purposes Meeting create anything of historical value. Rarely is anything decided or completed from it until the Minutes are approved at the Lodge’s Regular meeting. The Committee of General Purposes Meeting held on March 18th 2020 was a matter of historical value in itself.
Those who attended the meeting did so by means of the Internet link provided to Online Members or by Telephone by our Secretary. This allowed for participants to view and talk to each other. A member over 450 kilometres, or a 5 hour drive away, was able to participate in the meeting.
The Meeting was held via this medium in order to avoid contact due to everyone’s quarantine caused by the COVID -19 (Nova-Coronavirus) problem.
Today’s date is February 21st 2022 and I have an opportunity to add something to our Lodge’s History. In preparing to make this entry into this file on my computer, I noticed that the date on the folder for it was last modified on March 12th 2021. Yesterday on Sunday, February 20th 2022, our Lodge Secretary sent us an email which contained the “Draft copy of Minutes of the Regular Meeting” held on Wednesday, March 4th, 2020 A.D., the “Draft copy of Minutes of the Committee of General Purposes Meeting” held on February 16, 2022 and the March 2022 Lodge Summons for the upcoming scheduled for Wednesday March 2nd 2022. Our Masonic Lives are finally, moving forward. It will indeed be “Happy To Meet”. Please remember that as a Mason – you were taught to be cautious. The Covid-19 Vaccinations were never said to be 100% protection. Even 95 year old Queen Elizabeth II, has Covid.
As this is a “History”, I now present a summary of what occurred on March 4th 2020.
The occasion of the 1528th Regular Meeting of Nickel Lodge was the occasion of the Official Visit from our D.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Robert J. Lipic. Our Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Thomas F. Morris welcomed everyone, opened the Lodge in proper Masonic form, and three visiting Worshipful Masters and V.W. Bro. Tom King, the Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario, were introduced, accorded the Grand Honours, and invited to the East.
R.W. Bro. Robert J. Lipic, District Deputy Grand Master of the Sudbury Manitoulin District, was presented, accorded the Grand Honours, and invited to the East to assume the gavel.
An application for initiation, as well as a favourable report on an application for the degrees was received.
Bro. Kristian William Keller proved his proficiency in the First Degree and was directed to retire with the Entered Apprentice Masons present.
Bro. Greg Blomme and Bro. Ghislain Cotton proved their proficiency in the Master Mason Degree. A Grand Lodge Certificate was presented to Bro. Blomme and signed immediately. Bro. Cotton’s certificate had not arrived.
No objection being made, Bro. Keller, having been found worthy of advancement, and having been properly prepared, was passed to the second or Fellowcraft degree.
W. Bro. Tom Morris presented the D.D.G.M. with a donation to the District Project. He thanked the visitors for helping by their presence, thanked the degree team for their efforts, and congratulated Bro. Keller for his work.
R.W. Bro. Lipic congratulated Bro. Keller and the degree team. He introduced the District Chairmen as well as W. Bro. Cunningham then gave a brief talk on friendship without frivolity.
To continue.