By Rich Rygh
Brother Thomas W. Stevens and the officers for 2024-2025 were installed at the Wisconsin Masonic Center on June 7th.
Brother Steve Klein, Past Master of Chippewa Falls Lodge No. 176, opened the Lodge assisted by Jay Gebert as Senior Warden and Brother Peter Sterzinger as Junior Warden.
Installing Chaplain Arlon Spaeth gave the opening prayer.
Brother Steve Klein introduced PGM L. Arby Humphrey Installing Grand Master; Joseph B. Harker, Installing Marshal; and Arlon Spaeth, Installing Chaplain.
The officers of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin were installed in proper form. The officer’s collars were presented by their ladies.
Grand Master-elect Thomas W. Stevens was escorted to the altar for installation. All Masters of lodges present were asked to join the Grand Master elect at the altar, placing their hand on the shoulder of the Master in front of them.
RW Brother Thomas W. Stevens received the charges of the Grand Master as the Masters of the lodges pledged their support.
Pictured above, Grand Master Thomas W. Stevens is escorted to the East following his installation by Tripoli Scottish Highlanders, from left: Grant Walden, Chuck Boelkow and Shawn Athy; followed by Grand Marshal William “Jeff” Clark and conducted by Installing Marshal PGM Joseph B. Harker.
Installing Master L. Arby Humphrey introduced the new Grand Master and he received a hearty round of applause.
The Grand Master paid the pipers.
Grand Master Stevens’ Lady Laura and children presented him with a hat to wear during his year as Grand Master.
Installing Grand Marshal Harker proclaimed the officers duly installed, he proclaimed it in the South, West and East in the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons for the State of Wisconsin.
Grand Master Stevens thanked his family for their support, he said it has been a long road. He thanked everyone for being there for him and all those that participated in the installation.
The Grand Master received an embroidered plaque commemorating his year as Grand Master from Brother Jim Herman.
Brother Greg Heine, Master of Landmark Lodge No 244, presented the Grand Master with a handcrafted cribbage board on behalf of the Lodge.
The Grand Master received his Grand Masters Fez from the Zor Shriners.
The Lodge was closed and everyone retired to the ballroom for the installation reception featuring lots of food, games, refreshments, a live band, photo booth, great fellowship and great fun.
