LOCK HAVEN - Four hundred and 40 years spans generations.
So just think of what that means in terms of combined years of service among eight men in Clinton County.
That's just the number of years those men, who are members of the Lafayette Lodge 199, Free and Accepted Masons, have served the age-old fraternal organization.
Article Photos
Senior members of Lafayette Lodge 199, Free and Accepted Masons, Lock Haven, were honored for a combined 440 years of service and membership at a recent ceremony at the lodge in downtown. From left are Norman G. Wolfrom; Kenneth McClintock, who is F&AM district deputy grand master; Glenn B. Smith, Ray Andrews, Lodge 199 master; Fred A. Furst (standing); Thomas M. Walker (sitting); R. Thomas Heckel and Nevin J. Sweitzer. McClintock and Andrews presented the awards. Not pictured, but also honored, were Donald E. Gummo (50 years), and Howard A. Casselberry (60 years).
They were honored with a special dinner and ceremony the night of April 12 at the Masonic Lodge on Main Street in downtown Lock Haven.
Recognized for 70 years of service and membership with Lodge 199 was Glenn B. Smith of Loganton, who was accompanied by his wife, Anna, along with their son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Barb Smith of Lamar.
Since he was age 21, Smith served in various capacities with the Masons, including its Shrine Club, its Motor Corps and the Mounted Patrol of years past, engaging and helping with fundraising for various children in need and charities over those 70 years.
"I thoroughly enjoyed all of my time. It's the best thing I ever did in my life to help others," a very modest Smith, a retired Hammermill Paper machine tender, said in accepting the honor.
Honored for 60 years of service and membership were Howard A. Casselberry and Fred A. Furst.
Honored for 50 years of service and membership were Donald E. Gummo, Nevin J. Sweitzer, R. Thomas Heckel, Thomas M. Walker, and Norman G. Wolfrom.
Sweitzer talked about having "a lot of good teachers" as mentors during his work and service with the Masons.
Wolfrom, a past lodge master, noted he joined the Masons the same week he got married.
Furst recalled the support of his family and said he has enjoyed being involved in the organization from the start.
