By Brother Roger Wolski
Early on the morning of June 5, the gavel sounded and the 182nd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin was underway.
The opening of the lodge was conducted by the officers of Barneveld Lodge No. 319: Worshipful Master Robert Massey, Senior Warden David Grinder, Junior Warden Charles Meyer, Senior Deacon Jacob Nygren, Junior Deacon Benjamin Lyons, Senior Steward Dan Maughan, Junior Steward Scott Komplin, Tyler Joseph Barrios, Secretary-Treasurer Robert Johnson and Chaplain Sean Schilling. Pictured above, Brother Nygren lights the candles.
Shortly after the opening, an alarm was heard at the inner door. The Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and the officers of the Grand Lodge sought admission and were escorted to the altar. Deputy Grand Master, Joseph E. Thompson, and the Grand Lodge officers were formally introduced. Brother Thompson was escorted to the East by the Senior Deacon, where he and the officers received the Grand Honors of Masonry.
A second alarm sounded at the outer door. Grand Master Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt entered through a second-floor rear door of the auditorium shaking hands with the Brethren as he made his way down to the floor to be escorted to the altar and introduced by Senior Grand Deacon George T. Eisenmann, III. Deputy Grand Master Thompson welcomed the Grand Master, escorting him to the East. Grand Master Schoenfeldt received the gavel, and formally received the Grand Honors.
Past Grand Masters of Wisconsin Freemasonry were introduced by Senior Grand Steward Ryan A. Mayrand and welcomed by Grand Master Schoenfeldt and Deputy Grand Master Thompson. Distinguished guests from sister jurisdictions were also introduced and recognized.
Grand Master Schoenfeldt declared the 182nd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin open in due and ample form and welcomed the assembled brethren and guests.
In recognition of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the National Sojourners presented the colors. The presentation of the flag was followed by the “Pledge of Allegiance”. An all-Masonic quartet consisting of Brothers, Jamison Kifer, DD5 Nathan H. Randall, John White and Curt Campagna performed the National Anthem, followed by a patriotic musical tribute titled “A Salute to the Armed Services.”
The Grand Master called Brother LeRoy R. Huber to the East and announced that he had been selected as the Honoree of the 182nd Annual Communication. Brother Huber has served Freemasonry for 58 years, attended Annual Communications for nearly six decades, and has served as Worshipful Master for an astonishing 49 consecutive years. Brother LeRoy has played a special role in the Masonic journey of many Wisconsin Freemasons, including that of Grand Master Jeff.
The Lodge was called informal to allow presentations from Wisconsin’s youth organizations. State Master Councilor Eric Bingheim of Wisconsin DeMolay and Grand Bethel Honored Queen Emma “Henry” Bingheim of Wisconsin Job’s Daughters International addressed the assembly.
Henry Bingheim spoke about the importance of youth organizations in helping young people develop leadership skills, confidence and lifelong friendships. Eric Bingheim’s message was simple and powerful: “DeMolay Works!” He highlighted the organization’s role in developing leadership, teamwork, accountability and lasting bonds of friendship.
Grand Chaplain Dr. David O. Leistra presented the Necrology Report and offered a prayer. The Brethren paused to honor the Brothers who laid down their working tools during the past year, followed by a moving DeMolay ceremony honoring departed DeMolay Dads and Masonic mentors.
The lodge was called to order and GM Jeff explained that he wanted to change the usual “Necrology Report” into a “Remembrance Service” to pay homage and respect to our fallen Brothers. He further explained that he wanted to involve the youth group leaders in the Service to instill in them the lessons of respecting our past and preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, PGM, delivered the report of the Credentials Committee. A total of 144 lodges were represented at the Annual Communication, with 454 registered delegates.
The first item of unfinished business involved Resolution 4-2025, which had previously been referred to the Esoteric Committee.
Grand Master Schoenfeldt recognized and thanked the District Lecturers, District Representatives, District Membership Representatives and District Education Officers for their dedication and service throughout the year. He noted that through their efforts Wisconsin Freemasonry continues to grow stronger.
Past Grand Master Paul T. Tourville delivered the response on behalf of the Past Grand Masters. He challenged the brethren with the question, “How does it feel to be the good in the world?” and reminded those present that the vision for the future of Freemasonry is achieved by continually moving forward.
Deputy Grand Master Thompson presented the report of the Nominating Committee, which was accepted. The election ballot was then declared open.
Several distinguished visitors addressed the assembly. Brother Dr. Ty G. Treutelaar, Grand Secretary and Past Grand Master of Missouri, congratulated Wisconsin Masons for the positive influence of their Grand Lodge and the many charitable initiatives being carried out across the state. Brother Ty has a special connection to Wisconsin in that he is a graduate of Ashwaubenon High School, located just outside of the City of Green Bay.
Right Worshipful Glenn Mathews, Deputy Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, noted that the Prince Hall theme, “We Are the Light,” aligns perfectly with Wisconsin Freemasonry’s commitment to being the good in the world. He expressed enthusiasm for continued cooperation between the two Grand Lodges.
Grand Master Schoenfeldt delivered his annual report. He proudly stated, “The state of Freemasonry in Wisconsin is strong.” He highlighted seven Masonic Days of Light that resulted in 92 new Master Masons. He reported that the Wisconsin Masonic Endowment raised nearly $100,000 on the first night of his being Grand Master — and that the total for the Grand Master’s Appeal this year is expected to exceed $180,000. Matching grants available to lodges increased from $3,000 to $4,000.
GM Jeff also reported that for the first time in years – in fact, in decades – Wisconsin Freemasonry is currently experiencing NET POSITIVE GROWTH in that we are adding more Brothers to our Lodges than we are losing. This is the result of many years of a robust Membership Committee outreach and education program designed to raise public awareness of the good that Freemasons do.
GM Jeff also thanked the Brothers for their warm hospitality and Brotherly Love they extended to him over the past year. He stated that he was a part of 232 Masonic events, 47 Lodge officer installations, and attended the Annual Communications of all of our midwest neighbors: Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana – as well as Shrine Imperial Session in Atlanta, Scottish Rite in Indianapolis, and the Conference of Grand Masters of North America held in Illinois, proudly representing Wisconsin Freemasons.
He concluded by stating that everything the Wisconsin Freemasonry Leadership Team was involved with in the past year has been to give Brothers and Lodges the tools they need to be successful and to reset the mindset that “Grand Lodge is your partner – not your overlord!”
Brother Mark Strautman, Chief Executive Officer of Three Pillars, presented the Three Pillars report and shared a video highlighting recent improvements and future developments at the senior living community.
Brother Bob Roth delivered the report of the Committee on Resolutions and Jurisprudence. Emphasizing the importance of accountability, he quoted President Ronald Reagan’s famous phrase, “Trust, but verify.”
Resolution 3-2026, designating Madison as the site of the 2028 Annual Communication, was presented and approved.
Brother David Forsythe presented the Appeals and Grievances Report.
Past Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, PGM, presented the Foreign Relations Report. The committee recommended recognition of the Grand Lodge of Lebanon. The recommendation was approved by the delegates.
Grand Lecturer Moses H. Adams presented the report of the Esoteric Committee. The committee recommended that Resolution 4-2025 not be adopted and that Resolution 6-2026 be carried over to the 2027 Annual Communication.
Resolution 4-2025, which sought to clarify portions of ritual interaction between the Master, candidate and Senior Deacon, generated considerable discussion before ultimately being defeated.
Brother Derek Henze presented the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation report. He recognized the leadership and service of outgoing Foundation President Brother Peter Tourville. The Foundation remains financially strong and continues to expand its charitable impact throughout Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Masonic Foundation Executive Director Adam Rigden highlighted the continued success of the Acts of Kindness program and discussed the growing AED and First Responder Initiative. Through the support of private donors, the Foundation has been able to significantly expand its reach beyond traditional funding sources. The report was accepted.
Brother Todd Wohlert, chairman of the Wisconsin Masonic Journal Board, delivered the board’s annual report. He thanked the board members for their dedication and offered special recognition to Editor Rich Rygh and Ad Sales Person Christina Jester.
Brother Rygh expressed gratitude to the brethren and District Deputies whose submissions help showcase the many accomplishments and activities taking place throughout Wisconsin lodges. He reminded the Brothers The Wisconsin Masonic Journal will publish July and August issues beginning this year replacing the single Summer issue.
Brother Wohlert also discussed efforts to increase advertising revenue and strengthen the Journal’s financial future. The report was accepted.
Special recognition was given to Brother Jerry Melcher, who was recently raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason at the age of 85 in LaBelle Lodge (No. 84) earlier this year! “It’s never too late!” exclaimed the Grand Master.
Resolution 5-2026, permitting the use of a designated prompter with an open cipher during degree work and candidate instruction, generated spirited discussion, including a Brother who suffered a head injury who credits this ability with allowing him to confidently take part in degrees. The resolution ultimately passed with the support of more than 85% of those in attendance.
Resolutions 6-2026 and 7-2026 were referred to the Esoteric Committee.
Following the lunch recess, the Annual Communication reconvened and the election ballot was declared closed. District Deputies retired to the library for tabulation of votes.
Resolution 8-2026, intended to strengthen financial oversight and ensure proper checks and balances within lodge treasuries, was defeated.
Resolution 9-2026, permitting service animals in Wisconsin lodges, was approved following discussion and clarification.
The Grand Master proudly displayed a stack of awards for lodges that have received a net gain in membership this past year. A total of forty-seven lodges were recognized.
Brother Jim Stoebe was recognized for his dedication and service in providing musical accompaniment throughout Annual Communication and was appointed Honorary Grand Lodge Organist.
Brother Reagan Schultz received the Wisconsin Masonic Passport Program Certificate of Excellence. Brother Schultz and Bro. Michael Marone were named co-recipients of the Rookie Mason of the Year Award.
James M. Hays Lodge received the Wisconsin Freemasonry Love Ya Brother Award.
Centennial Certificates were presented to George Washington Lodge 1776 and Calumet Lodge No. 172.
The Lodge Excellence Award was presented to a record 97 lodges, with more than half earning Gold-level recognition.
Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf announced the election results. Brothers Darrell Kyle and Christian Hirthe were elected to the Wisconsin Masonic Benevolent Activities Board. Bro. Roger Wolski was elected to a three-year term on the Wisconsin Masonic Journal Board. Brother Craig Froelich was elected Grand Trustee.
The elected Grand Lodge officers included Michael A. DeWolf, PGM, Grand Secretary; Paul T. Tourville, PGM, Grand Treasurer; George T. Eisenmann III, Junior Grand Warden; Matthew H. Ivens, Senior Grand Warden; Gail F. “Earl” Gunderson, Deputy Grand Master; and Joseph E. Thompson, Grand Master. All accepted their offices and the results were spread upon the minutes.
The proceeds from the 50-50 raffle were donated back to the Grand Master’s Appeal, raising nearly $1,800 for the Acts of Kindness grant program.
Retiring Grand Lodge Officers were recognized.
Grand Master Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt presented the prestigious Grand Master’s Meritorious Masonic Service Award to Grand Tiler Donald G. Komplin. He has been an active Mason for 67 years and was celebrating his 90th birthday.
A spirited rendition of “Happy Birthday” was sung for Senior Grand Deacon Michael A. Burnham and Grand Tiler Donald G. Komplin. They also received birthday cakes made by Kim Larson.
Several presentations followed. District Deputies presented the Grand Master with gifts of cat litter and treats in recognition of his well-known affection for cats. Brother Les Johnson presented him with a custom four-pack of homemade mead, while Brother Napoleon Janczak presented him with a dues card from Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research and a copy of its latest publication.
Chetek Lodge No. 277 returned the Traveling Trowel and helped establish a new tradition in which the outgoing Grand Master passes the trowel to his successor.
Commander in Chief Mike Roddy, representing the Valley of Madison Scottish Rite, presented Grand Master Schoenfeldt with his “Golden Passport” and a certificate recognizing completion of his Scottish Rite Passport.
The Lodge was called informal so that his Lady, Janelle Schoenfeldt, could be escorted into the auditorium. The Grand Master thanked his wife for her support and sacrifices throughout his year of service – especially given the fact that they were only married six months before he became Grand Master. GM Jeff highlighted the amount of work she had to do at home to tend for their dog, McKinley Roosevelt, and their nine indoor cats: Mason, Magic, Darth, Tink, Toe White, Simba, Hale, Leo, and Cocoa while he was away visiting Lodges.
The final presentation of the day came from Grotto members, who delighted attendees by launching commemorative “Wisconsin Freemasonry: Be The Good In The World” T-shirts into the audience using their famous T-shirt cannons.
The Annual Communication resumed Saturday morning under the leadership of Grand Master Joseph E. Thompson. Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf presented Past Grand Master Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt with his Past Grand Master’s Jewel.
Grand Master Thompson addressed the brethren and outlined his vision for the coming year. A self-described traditionalist, he emphasized the importance of Masonic education and ritual excellence. He announced that any Wisconsin Mason with 50 or more years of membership who experiences financial hardship would be eligible to have his Grand Lodge per-capita remitted. He also announced the return of ritual competition and pledged to work closely with Wisconsin’s appendant bodies to strengthen fellowship, education and brotherly love.
A report was given by the Business Administrator, Senior Grand Steward Kyle Grahn. The continued goal is to remain compliant with state and federal regulations. Accurate record keeping of the lodges is crucial in the success of the fraternity.
Brother Tom Ewald presented an update on the Wisconsin Masonic Center. He recognized board members and volunteers whose efforts helped transform the facility. Since reorganization, the center has hosted 37 events generating more than $200,000 in revenue. Future plans include continued renovations and maintenance improvements.
Grand Master Thompson conferred the title of Grand Treasurer Emeritus upon Brother Jeffrey Bryden, former Treasurer.
Grand Treasurer Paul T. Tourville, PGM, presented the Expenditure Committee Report. He reminded lodges that resources are available for those considering the purchase or sale of property and emphasized the importance of accurate financial reporting and compliance. He noted that 54 percent of the Grand Lodge budget is returned directly to Wisconsin lodges. He moved that the report be spread across the minutes. It was seconded and approved.
Resolution 2-2026, establishing Grand Lodge per capita at $55, was approved.
Resolution 1-2026 adopting the Grand Lodge budget, was also approved.
Brethren were reminded that voting cards must be submitted in the provided boxes to receive per diem reimbursement.
Brothers Ryan Thiele and Eric Pantano introduced the return of ritual competition in District 7 through the Dairyland System, a program modeled after DeMolay ritual competitions. The inaugural competition is scheduled to take place at the Wisconsin Masonic Center on October 10.
Brother Jacob Schultz presented a report from the Membership Committee and shared videos promoting Wisconsin Freemasonry. He reported that approximately 1,700 membership leads were generated through District Membership Representatives and highlighted the success of the online petition process. Survey results from participants in Masonic Days of Light showed exceptionally positive feedback.
In his closing remarks, Grand Master Thompson reflected upon the history of Olive Branch Lodge No. 6, which inspired the design of the Grand Lodge lapel pin bearing the theme, “Inspired by our history, embracing our future.”
He concluded by reminding the brethren, “The legacy we build today will inspire those who follow us. Through our dedication, Freemasonry will thrive for years to come.”
After the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer confirmed that all business had been completed, Grand Master Thompson declared the 182nd Annual Communication closed.
