By Brother Todd Wohlert
Over 80 people attended the 175th Anniversary event at Fort Winnebago Lodge No. 33 in Portage on August 16. Pictured above, the Wisconsin Freemasonry Leadership Team and Fort Winnebago officers, front row from left: Senior Warden Steve Kleinschmidt, DR7 Kevin Reichenbach, Senior Grand Warden Earl Gundersen, Master Michael Statz, Grand Master Jeff Schoenfeldt, Deputy Grand Master Joseph E. Thompson and DMR7 Steven Maurer. Second row: DD7 Kevin K. Gruber, Senior Grand Deacon George E. Eisenmann III, Junior Grand Deacon Michael A. Burnham and Junior Grand Warden Matthew H. Ivens. Third row: DR8 Ryan Ramnarace, DD11 Jason A. Braatz, Senior Grand Steward Ryan A. Mayrand and Junior Grand Steward Paul A.Larson. Back row: DD8 Daniel M. Wohlfert, DD9 Patrick J. Garvin and DMR7 Michael Thumm.
The day kicked off with an open house featuring historical items and pictures from the lodge’s long history. The event officially began with a flag presentation by the Madison York Rite Commandery with an opening greeting from Master Michael Statz. Portage Mayor Matt Fiene congratulated the Lodge on their long history and commitment to the community. He read a special proclamation acknowledging the day and presented a commemorative plaque to the Lodge.
Grand Master Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt, the final speaker for the opening festivities stated, “I’m really proud of the Brothers of Fort Winnebago Lodge in their community involvement, and it shows, that after 175 years of being a part of Portage, that the bonds of Brotherhood are strong and the community outreach continues to make positive effects.”
The full house was treated to a great meal. Voices, young and old, could be heard sharing fellowship, fun, and cupcakes with blue frosting that gave all the big smiles a bright blue hue. The Lodge also donated meals to the local fire department, picked up by Lt. Engineer Josh Meyer.
Following the meal, the Zor Shrine Midgets parade unit put on a display on a side street adjacent to the lodge. A few of the Grand Lodge officers jumped into the cars for pics afterwards. The day was capped off with a social and bourbon event.
“Wonderful,” said Master Michael Statz, reflecting on the event, “We had just about every Grand Line officer here, which is excellent and entertaining and made us feel proud to be part of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin. For Fort Winnebago Lodge No. 33 it’s a great day. This was a long time planning – a long time coming – but you’re only as good as your team, and Fort Winnebago has a great team!”
