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Spring 2022 Vol. 32, No. 2 The Masonic Villages include locations in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster. Public Relations Department Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 For more information, call Masonic Village’s Public Relations Office at 717-367-1121, ext. 33383 or email pr@masonicvillages.org. The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency or any other protected status.
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Inside this Issue 3 Welcome, New Leadership 4 A Guide for Those Facing Dementia
Spring 2022 Issue
10 Finding Happiness in History
6 Your Partner in Parkinson’s
12 A Family Tradition of Service
8 Growing Recognition
13 Practicing What You Teach
19 A Charitable Alternative to Disposing of Your IRA
14 Pieces of the Past
20 Memorial Gifts 27 Honorarium Gifts
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COVER STORIES Treasuring the Past
16 Vivid Recollections
On the cover: Paula Gidjunis (see her story on p. 13).
Welcome, NEW LEADERSHIP!
JOSEPH S. FRANCO
EMILEE KRASSON
Masonic Villages named Joseph S. Franco as its new chief information officer (CIO) upon the retirement of Don Johnston, who held the position for 11 years. As CIO, Joseph coordinates, plans and operates the information technologies and computer programs of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Masonic Villages. His responsibilities include establishing policies and procedures for information processing matters, selecting and evaluating hardware and software and supervising and providing training for personnel. He provides overall strategic direction to ensure security of centralized systems and information. Joseph brings 18 years of experience. He previously worked as the executive director of information technology at Phoebe Ministries in Allentown. He holds an associate degree in computer programming and network operations, a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems management and a master’s in business administration. In 2020, Joseph was named one of Lehigh Valley’s Forty Under 40.
HEATHER SECRIST
Emilee Krasson has been named director of sales and marketing at Masonic Village at Dallas. She is responsible for managing and implementing a comprehensive sales and marketing program to maintain maximum occupancy levels and optimal operating efficiency for retirement living accommodations. Emilee graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health care management and minor in marketing and earned a master’s degree in organizational management, both from Misericordia University. Previously, Emilee was employed as a program specialist for an adult day program, as a health-related technology instructor at West Side Career and Technology Center and as a certified nursing assistant with Timber Ridge Health Care Center. She completed a marketing internship with Masonic Village at Dallas in 2018. Heather Secrist has been named program manager at the Bleiler Caring Cottage at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. She is responsible for the coordination of daily operations of the Bleiler Caring Cottage and ensuring compliance with all regulations governing the program’s operations.
JENNA ZAHM
Heather previously worked as an in-home caregiver for individuals with intellectual disabilities at The Arc of York County before coming to Masonic Villages in June 2020 as a recreational therapist in the Masonic Health Care Center. She holds a bachelor’s degree from York College in recreational therapy. Jenna Zahm has been promoted from clinical manager to director of Masonic Village Home Health in Elizabethtown. Jenna will apply 12 years of experience to oversee the clinical staff and aid in the growth of home health services. Her responsibilities include managing operations and budgets and working with leadership and co-workers to ensure quality care and service for residents, patients and families. A registered nurse (RN), Jenna previously served as the clinical manager for Affilia Home Health in Lancaster and has held roles as a home care RN and case manager, medical surgical RN and patient care assistant. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences and is enrolled in the Master of Business Administration program at Elizabethtown College.
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A Guide
for Those Facing Dementia Rick Schies, a former nurse manager at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, has devoted 26 years to nursing, 20 of which he spent caring for patients with dementia and helping their families navigate the challenges presented by the chronic and progressive condition. Although he recently retired in February, Rick agreed to temporarily serve as assistant director of nursing at Masonic Village. Whatever his job title, his knowledge will continue to guide families, thanks to his new book, “Dementia the Experience - A Family and Caregiver Resource.” “The book is an exceptional ‘must read’ for all family and caregivers dealing with a loved one with dementia,” Vicki Gillmore, R.N., Ph.D., retired executive director of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, said. “As I grew closer to retirement, I found myself reflecting on my career, and I began to realize how this special population has significantly impacted my life,” Rick said. 4
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“Through the years of working closely with family members, hearing about the difficulties they faced as they had to deal with all the uncertainties of this condition, I realized there are so many people who are unprepared to deal with this. I was plagued with the idea that these people needed some kind of help.”
“I always enjoyed writing, so during the height of the COVID pandemic, I decided to work on this project. I wanted the book to be basic and down-to-earth, easy to read and understand, something the average person could relate to.” In the first portion of the book, Rick introduces the reader to Cora, his grandmother. He then adds some additional fictional characters, like Ralph and Charlie, to help the reader understand the subtle, early behavioral changes which occur and the impact this condition can have on their families.
In the second half of the book, Rick clarifies differences among vascular dementia, Parkinson’s dementia, Alzheimer’s dementia and others. He gives specific information on medications, behaviors, motivation and safety.
“One of the most important aspects of the book is the focus on the caregiver and how to deal with a short attention span, wandering, dressing, cueing and other activities of daily living,” Vicki said. “Rick acknowledges the frustration families may feel and how and when to ask for assistance.” With one book under his belt, Rick’s desire to reach out to family members and other caregivers motivated him to write a second book. In April, he managed to complete and publish his second book, “Dementia Behaviors and the Stigma – The Positive Approach to Care.” Both books are available as an e-book or in paperback through Amazon. “The writing was fun, but the publishing piece of it was all new,” Rick said of his first book. “If it would not have been for a few close friends, I probably would never have been able to complete it.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Out of high school, Rick earned a degree in psychology and focused his career on the mental health field. Feeling an urge do more, Rick pursued a degree in nursing upon the encouragement of his wife, who had several nurses in her family. After time in a rehabilitation unit, he discovered he enjoyed working with older patients and transitioned into long-term care. “I saw it as the next stepping stone in my career,” Rick said. “I began working with individuals who were diagnosed with dementia, and it wasn’t long until my passion began to grow, and I wanted to learn more about this condition.” Rick joined Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in 2002 as the nurse manager for two of the memory support neighborhoods (units). His responsibilities ranged from resident care to staff scheduling and education, to meetings with families, to working with physicians, to ensuring regulations and guidelines were being followed. Rick always strived to make sure staff felt supported and appreciated, because he believed everyone on the team was equally important and played a
vital role in the residents’ care. One of the most important parts of his job was seeing the difference he could make in the lives of residents and staff.
“We can all make a difference,” he said. “It just takes a desire to do so. Those few moments it takes for you to kneel or sit down next to a resident to let them know you care, and seeing them smile, makes it all worthwhile.” Even when his work day was over, his work and residents remained close to heart. “You grow especially close to some, but there are those who may remind you of a close family member, just something about them that makes them extra special. You also have those family members who you grow close to through the years,” Rick said. “You can’t help but shoulder the burden they carry.” When Rick finally does retire, he will be spending more time with his wife and puppies, fishing with the grandchildren, doing photography, trying his hand at wood carving, painting, and of course, writing. Through his writing, he’ll continue to fulfill his passion for helping those with dementia. “The number of individuals diagnosed with dementia grows each year, and many family members are choosing to keep their loved one at home, so they need to know what to expect,” he said. “They need to understand there is support out there and what to do when they can no longer do it on their own. The dementia journey is a tough one, and it’s a journey no one should face alone.” MasonicVillages.org
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may be a first step to get their exercise regimen safely underway. In the Wellness Center, the main goal is to find an exercise they enjoy and stick with, whether it is using the recumbent bicycle, NuStep, our Pneumatic strength training equipment or even a fitness or yoga class.” Masonic Village at Sewickley’s Barley Wellness Center works with the physical therapy department on approved exercises for each resident, with oversight from a physician. The Baird Wellness Center at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers a “Let’s Move with Parkinson’s” exercise class, and staff are planning to host some virtual speakers this summer to speak on the topic. Lydia Kraft and Brooke Smoker, wellness specialists, do one-on-one personal trainings with clientele.
Your Partner
in Parkinson’s Approximately 1% of individuals age 65 and older, and 3 to 5% over age 85, develop Parkinson’s disease, according to Dr. Thomas Tropea, a neurologist, movement disorder specialist and assistant professor of neurology at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. The neurodegenerative disorder affects dopamine production in the brain and can lead to shaking, stiffness and difficulty with walking, balance and coordination.
“Studies show regular exercise can help maintain balance, mobility and the ability to perform daily tasks,” according to Kara LaFreeda, wellness program manager at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. “This means exercise can help ease Parkinson’s symptoms and may even slow the progression of the disease. The goal is to incorporate aerobic, strengthening, balance and stretching into the routine and adapt as needed based on the person’s abilities.” Masonic Villages has programs in place to help those who have Parkinson’s, their loved ones and those who may develop Parkinson’s. “We always first recommend the resident consults their doctor before starting any exercise program. Parkinson’s disease can affect people differently, so you would need to assess each person,” Kara said. “Physical therapy 6
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“Boxing, along with other bouts of high intensity exercise, has been shown to help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease,” Brooke said. “We offer a range of different programs to help with symptom management.” Masonic Village at Dallas residents have access to CIP Rehabilitation, located in the Irem Clubhouse, which offers customized plans using evidencebased interventions for those with Parkinson’s.
“BIG” AND “LOUD” PROGRAMS People think of Parkinson’s as primarily affecting movement, but their speech and vocal capability are also impacted. According to Lauren Rebuck, a speech and language pathologist with Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, 89% of people with Parkinson’s have some kind of voice disorder. LVST Global, a neurological therapy development organization and training provider, offers “BIG” and “LOUD” programs that use speech, physical and occupational therapy to “recalibrate” movement and speech patterns when affected by Parkinson’s. These programs are perfect fits for Masonic Villages’ inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation teams, a group of clinicians already used to collaborating on patient care. “Many people with Parkinson’s need not just physical therapy but occupational and speech therapy,” Michelle Hinkle, physical therapist in Elizabethtown said. “An interdisciplinary team is very important for treating the whole person. We’re looking at patients’ quality of life and enjoying their time here.” Participants in the “BIG” and “LOUD” programs in Elizabethtown have four one-hour sessions a week, plus homework, for a month.
“As therapists, the changes we have seen in [the patients] in a short period of time are very exciting for us,” Michelle said. Barb Dieterle, occupational therapist with the outpatient rehabilitation department, has been visiting Barry Zimmerman in his home for about three months. She’s suggested products to simplify his life, such as Velcro pants, ramps and a raised table, so he can comfortably continue tinkering in his garage. She also works on exercises which have helped his posture, and she coordinates with home care staff who visit Barry. He will eventually transition to visiting the Baird Wellness Center to continue his exercises. “There’s a lot of benefit,” Barry said. “I’m able to concentrate more and do things I enjoy. My upper body is stronger.” “People may not realize we can make their life easier,” Barb said. “They may be afraid to let us see them struggling. We’re here to do little things to help. We want people to stay in their homes.” “It takes a lot off me,” Barry’s wife, Donna, said. “A Mason for 27 years, I was always hoping I’d end up [at Masonic Village],” Barry said. “I haven’t been disappointed. There’s so much to do and so many nice people.” Masonic Villages’ Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster locations utilize Genesis Rehabilitation Services for physical and occupational therapy, and their staff are also LVST-BIG and LVST-LOUD certified.
NEUROLOGIC MUSIC THERAPY Another new treatment approach comes from Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s music therapy department. Music therapist Liz Eargle recently completed training in neurologic music therapy. It is a research-based approach focused on using music as the stimulus for behaviors, based upon understanding how music impacts the brain. Specific techniques have been developed to address cognitive, sensorimotor and speech and language skills. For those with Parkinson’s, the technique focuses on increasing breath support and volume of sound, as cluttering of speech and decreased volume are very common. Coordination of movement also becomes difficult with Parkinson’s, and the addition of a metronome and musical cues can help patients increase awareness of their movements and practice control. After a referral from Barb, Barry and Liz (shown together in left photo) began meeting weekly. Liz helps cue specific movements through the placement of a
drum or tambourine in front of Barry and uses the sound feedback to show how his movements to reach the drum or tambourine were coordinated. She also directs him to do a forward and back lean to isolate a specific movement that helps build core control. “I feel better after she comes,” Barry said. “When she tells me it’s our last song, I get sad.” Barry, a fan of country and western music, especially enjoys when they sing his favorite song together, “I Walk the Line,” by Johnny Cash.
BIODEX TREADMILL AND GAIT TRAINER On the technology end, Elizabethtown’s outpatient rehabilitation department added a Biodex treadmill and gait trainer to their lineup of therapy machines available for residents. Those with Parkinson’s, back pain or spinal cord injuries, as well as amputees, will all benefit from this piece of equipment and its “unweighting” system. Elizabethtown residents Mark and Judy Townsend contributed financially to supply outpatient rehabilitation with some of their previous machines, like the SMARTfit Mini. The Biodex treadmill and gait trainer was a result of their giving as well.
“As a department, we want to expand as much as we can to see what we can offer. We would not be where we are today without Mark and Judy,” Michael Dilley, director of therapy services, said. “It’s one thing to say we have a program and success stories; it’s another thing to say ‘Look what we did with this specific person.’” MasonicVillages.org
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G ROW I N G
Recognition
Tad Kuntz, farm market/orchard manager at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown (shown above with his father), received the Outstanding Grower of the Year Award from the State Horticultural Association of Pennsylvania (SHAP) during its Annual Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention in February. Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding presented the award. Tad is the second in his family to receive the award.
“A peer selected award is very special to me,” he said. “I have built many relationships with my agricultural peers over the years, and knowing they appreciate and respect what I have contributed is a true honor. I am humbled to even be mentioned among the past recipients, which include my grandfather in 1997. He passed away in 2012 at age 96, but I’m sure he would be proud I am following in his footsteps. My family members are the backbone of my education and work ethic.” Tad is a fourth-generation fruit grower who grew up working on his family’s 650-acre farm, Kuntz Orchards Inc., located north of Gettysburg in Adams County. His father, two uncles, grandfather and great-grandfather were fruit growers. His grandfather and father taught him everything he needed to know about the business. 8
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After graduating from Bermudian Springs High School, Tad attended Delaware Valley University in Doylestown, PA, where he received a Bachelor of Science in horticulture. Tad has worked as the farm market/orchard manager since 1990. He is responsible for managing production of a 50-acre orchard comprised of 30 different varieties of peaches, 63 different varieties of apples, sweet and tart cherries, pears, apricots, plums, kiwi and pumpkins. He is also responsible for the operations and marketing of the Farm Market, open yearround, and the seasonal Orchard View Café. Elected to the board of SHAP, Tad has held every office including president. He has served on the Penn State Agricultural Engineering Advisory Committee, the Legislative Advisory Committee and the PA State Farm Show Food Court Committee. He has been helping at the PA Farm Show since age 8 when he stood on a milk crate to make change, and this past January, he completed his 45th year as a volunteer. Tad has also been an integral member of several agricultural organizations, such as participating in the Ag-in-theClassroom educational presentations for 20 years (1995-2015). He is currently the chair of the PA Peach and Nectarine Research Program and the Lancaster County Extension Horticultural Advisory Committee and is secretary of the Lancaster County Fruit Growers Association.
Treasuring the Past
Appreciation for the past can provide clarity for the future. Sharing stories of yesteryears, studying and reenacting historical events and collecting and preserving antiques rekindles valuable lessons and cherished memories. The experiences of our ancestors have shaped our world and light the way for our future. MasonicVillages.org
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FINDING HAPPINESS
in History
Denise and Gerald (Jerry) Francis are quite the power couple, powered by a love of history. The two history buffs met in a college library more than 50 years ago. They’ve spent their lives volunteering with various non-profit organizations and sharing a love of research, writing and service to the community. Jerry moved to the health care area at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill in late August 2021, and Denise moved to campus in October. Jerry has since joined his wife in retirement living.
JERRY FRANCIS Jerry, a retired business executive in the information technology industry, spent 22 years as president of the Lower Merion Historical Society. The award-winning historian has authored, co-authored or edited more than 15 books about the area, including “The First 200 Years: The Lower Merion Society for the Detection and Prosecution of Horse Thieves and the Recovery of Stolen Horses” (2017) and “Lower Merion and Narberth.” (2010) Jerry has given more than 200 lectures and television interviews. He has actively participated in various historic preservation projects, including the Cynwyd Train Station revitalization project (2007-2014) and the Cynwyd Heritage Trail. He also was a tour guide at Woodford Mansion, a historic mansion in Fairmount Park, among other volunteer efforts too numerous to list. Due to his tremendous accomplishments, Jerry has received several awards through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Montgomery and Delaware counties, including the President’s Gold Volunteer Service Award. He received the President’s Lifetime Volunteer Award (2014) for volunteering more than 14,000 hours since 2002. He even received a citation from former President Barack Obama.
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“I love history. It’s in my blood,” Jerry said. “I grew up in a family that enjoyed and appreciated history. I try to make history real, not retell the same story again and again. “My wife is very helpful. A [former] archivist, she helps me find and dig up facts — the lost history you don’t write about. There is a lot of misinformation out there. I tell the story the way it really is. This has made my lectures very popular.” Jerry earned a bachelor’s degree in social science and a master’s degree in library science from Villanova University. That’s where he met Denise, as they were both graduate assistants in the library. They went on to marry and have three children. After many years working with computers and forming his own computer company, Jerry decided to retire — at least from his full-time job.
“I spent all this time working hard because I HAD to, and now I wanted to do what I LIKED to do, which is teaching and speaking about history,” he said. He joined the Lower Merion Historical Society and the rest is, well, history. He hopes to return to volunteering in some capacity after he completely recovers. “They are doing a wonderful job here [with me] at Masonic Village,” he said. “I shouldn’t just be left in a room to sleep and do nothing. I can be made productive again. Masonic Village has given me the opportunity to recover and reinvent myself, so that in the future, I can get back to doing what I like to do.” One of those activities is Freemasonry. Jerry is a member of St. Alban Lodge No. 529 in Philadelphia. A group of his retired friends decided to join the fraternity several years ago. “I’m a fairly new Mason, but I was very much involved,” he said. “Our lodge adopted Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. We used to come here and entertain the [residents]. One year, I was Santa Claus, going through the corridors caroling. I never thought I’d be a patient here. Everything comes full circle.”
DENISE FRANCIS Denise, who grew up in Massachusetts, spent nearly 17 years as a reference librarian for the Lower Merion Township System/Bala Cynwyd Library before retiring in 2000. She earned her bachelor’s degree in history from Merrimack College in Massachusetts and her master’s degree in library science from Villanova.
Like Jerry, Denise is a tour guide at the Historic Houses of Fairmount Park, where she was trained by staff from the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
“I’ve always been interested in history,” she said. “I loved history courses in high school. I loved reading biographies. I was very interested in knowing about other people in other times. I loved American history, medieval history and military history.” Denise has been working for more than a decade on a genealogy project involving her and Jerry’s family histories. She became interested in genealogy when she visited Belgium with her sister. Her grandparents came from there many years ago. “We went to the villages they came from and started seeing where they lived, and when I returned home, I started going to the library and doing research,” she said. “I found information dating back to 1795. Off and on, it took about 15 years to complete. After doing my own family history, my husband wanted me to do his. It has been taking a lot longer to do his than mine. His family only came from western Pennsylvania, but the records are harder to find.” The couple, who have been married for 50 years, enjoy having shared interests and taking “themed” vacations involving history. In 2009, they traveled from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh for the 250th anniversary of the French and Indian Wars, stopping at various forts along the way. Denise said it’s important for people to learn about history, or they are doomed to repeat it. “Unfortunately, they don’t teach history in schools like they used to,” she said. “People have an idea history is just names and dates, but it’s more than that. I can tell you exactly what’s going on in the world now, and how it mirrors what went on 80 years ago. History tends to repeat itself. Unfortunately, people don’t always learn by it.”
“ History is more than just a picture in a book. It’s something you should experience — go out and feel it and touch it and smell it, not just read about it.” - JERRY FRANCIS MasonicVillages.org
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Jim has read many books about the war in Europe and in the Pacific, including biographies of the Generals in Europe and the Admirals in the Pacific. “I think General McArthur was a great inspiration to his men fighting in the jungles,” Jim said. “He tried to keep them from losing sight of what they were fighting for. All the battles were terrible. The only appeal for me was that my father fought on those islands, and I wanted to know more about those particular battles.” Jim feels the lessons of the time period are important for everyone to learn.
A Family Tradition OF SERVICE
With everyone in his immediate family having served in the military, Jim Wise has very personal reasons for studying World War II long after his father was stationed in the South Pacific. He’s read many books on the subject, books which he donated to the Masonic Village at Dallas so others may study the important battles and heroes who fought for our country. Jim’s father served in the Army, as did Jim and one of his brothers. He was in Korea from 1965-1966. Another brother retired from the Navy and the other served in the Air Force in Greenland. Jim’s sons carried on the family tradition, with one serving in the Army and one in the Air Force. “All of my family enlisted instead of waiting for the draft because my grandparents and great-grandparents were immigrants to the United States,” Jim said.
“My brothers and I were taught to be proud of our country and to fight to protect our country. I served, did my duty, made friends, lost friends, came home and picked up my life the best I could.”
“Unless you live in the times, it is hard to just read about what happened and try to apply that to your life, but I believe it is important to study the past, so we don’t make the same mistakes,” he said. “I have been surprised many times in talking to young people that they do not know about World War II. It seems history of the United States is not taught in the schools today.” For Jim, life has been about education, service and hard work. “My parents owned 150 acres of farm land,” he said. “I spent most of my youth learning farming, driving a tractor, plowing fields, planting vegetables and hunting small game and deer with my grandfather, father and brothers. I then taught both my sons to hunt, farm and have a respect for nature.” Both originally from Williamsport, PA, Jim, and his wife, Judy, moved to Masonic Village at Dallas from Sunbury. “Our parents lived in their homes too long, and it was difficult for them to leave their homes when their health failed, and they could no longer take care of themselves,” Jim said. “We decided to make the move before that happened to us and moved to be closer to our one son. We are near enough to help each other when needed, but not be on top of them.” Jim and Judy appreciate that much of the maintenance is taken care of for them at Masonic Village, giving Jim time to further read and explore topics and people of interest to him. “My wife and I try to keep active helping our sons when they need some help, taking care of our home and enjoying our time being together with our friends we have met here,” he said. Jim is shown with a Lord’s Prayer piece made by his mother.
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PR ACTICING What You Teach Paula Gidjunis has always been interested in U.S. history, particularly when it comes to the American Civil War. It’s a passion that has shaped her career and life.
“The first book I remember reading as a kid was ‘Little Women,’ and the women were from the [Civil War] time period,” she said. “[Author] Louisa May Alcott served as a nurse during the war. I became very interested in that period of time, and I wanted to learn more about women during the war. I wanted to know about the battles, etc. The information was really useful to me, especially when I was teaching my students.” Paula, a resident of Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, was a seventh and eighth grade social studies teacher for nine years at the Ivy Leaf private school in Philadelphia. When the school closed, she taught at several charter schools. She also taught continuing education classes and college classes at Manor College in Jenkintown, including “Women in the Civil War” and “African Americans in the Civil War.” Prior to teaching, Paula worked for the Department of Defense as a logistics manager and instructor for 27 years.
Paula came to Masonic Village last March with her domestic partner, who currently resides in health care. She has enjoyed her time here so far. “We checked out a lot of places but kept coming back to Masonic Village because they fit a lot of what we wanted,” she said. “I work part-time as a bookkeeper for my son, who runs a photo/videography company, and I watch my grandson a few nights a week. With all of that, I really don’t have time to do much else. But I do want to become more involved here.” Paula was born and raised in Philadelphia. She earned her undergraduate degree in history, with a minor in education, and an MBA and master’s degree in history from La Salle University. She wrote her thesis about the history of Civil War regiments in Bucks, Berks and Lehigh counties in Pennsylvania.
“We should all talk about history more,” Paula said. “I don’t think young people get enough of it in school. It’s not just about facts in a book – that’s how I’ve always looked at it. I love sharing information. When you get me started, it’s hard for me to stop.”
“I never really taught from the book; I much preferred having the students do things,” she said. “I would dress in period clothing and teach them how to march, for example. I love teaching history because you can incorporate a lot of other subjects, like geography, math and English.” Paula recently stepped down from the board of the Historical Society of Montgomery County, where she served for 12 years. She has been active with the Montgomery Cemetery in Norristown since 1995, placing flags on graves and giving tours at Memorial Day services. She serves on the board of the Delaware Valley Civil War Roundtable and heads their preservation committee. “We purchased night cameras for the Gettysburg National Battlefield because they needed them to watch for vandals at night,” she said. “We also restored a monument that had been vandalized. We’ve donated more than $30,000 to different organizations and museums for preservation efforts, including the Grand Army of the Republic Museum & Library in Philadelphia.” In her free time, Paula enjoys dressing in traditional Civil War garb and attending re-enactments. She also dresses up when she gives lectures at various historical societies or Civil War roundtables in Pennsylvania. She gave a talk about “Women at War” in late April at Masonic Village. MasonicVillages.org
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Josiah was chosen to design dinnerware for Royal Families and Heads of State, beginning with Queen Charlotte, great-great-great-grandmother of Queen Elizabeth. He was granted permission to be called the “Potter to Her Majesty.” The stoneware is created with high standards of quality control. Apprentices must train for 10 years before they are named Master Craftspeople. The Grahams saw the process first-hand when they visited the Wedgwood factory in Barlaston, England.
“It’s a delicate process. One out of every five vases exploded,” Linda said. “If a piece wasn’t perfect, it would be destroyed.” THE GRAHAMS’ STORY Charles’ mother collected Blue Wedgwood, so it was only a matter of time before he bought his bride, Linda, her first Wedgwood piece: a green egg. Linda is more partial to green, although their collection also includes blue, yellow and other specialty pieces.
PIECES of the PAST Charles and Linda Graham have a spacious cottage at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown — the perfect size to house their extensive collection of Wedgwood Jasperware in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Every piece offers an equally varied history. Each plate, vase, tile, tea set or other dishware tells a story: of the piece itself and of how it came into the Grahams’ possession. The oldest dates back to the 1700s. Several are limited edition, with 50 or fewer made.
THE STORY BEHIND WEDGWOOD Josiah Wedgwood started as an independent potter in 1759 in Burslem, England. He was only 29, a young age to be on his own as a tradesman. He experimented with more than 5,000 different formulas and colors for stoneware. In 1774, Jasper, which would become the most famous of his inventions, made its public debut. The unglazed vitreous stoneware was made in blue, green, lilac, yellow, black or white. Wedgwood Blue is the brand’s most recognizable style. Bas reliefs (mostlyflat sculptures) were added to the colored stoneware prior to being fired in the kiln. Molds reproduced from the original reliefs are still used today. 14
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The rest is history. The little green egg has turned into a collection with hundreds of unique items. Their collection is mostly complete, and they only make new purchases if it’s something rare or special. Linda tracks a few items from her wish list on eBay and other auction sites.
“We used to go to all the antique fairs,” Linda said. “We really loved the hunt. You can’t have it all, though.” They have a number of pieces from Wedgwood’s Egyptian Collection, featuring black stoneware and 24K gold. Some of the pieces are reproductions of original Egyptian designs Josiah Wedgwood created for Napoleon. They also have several items from the Greek Revival Collection, which are classical and symmetrical in design. Two pieces, which at first glance appear to be cake pedestals, are cheese domes, used to store soft cheese and keep mice out. Another rectangular piece was used to cook meat pies, a popular item during meat and flour rations in the past. Linda and Charles are Philadelphia natives, living in the city prior to moving to Masonic Village. One specialty piece is a ceramic bowl made in honor of the city’s bicentennial in 1987 and handed out by the mayor to dignitaries. Featuring more than just Wedgwood, their home is a museum of collections from their travels and interests.
Linda and Charles have spent much of their retirement exploring the world, visiting every continent but Antarctica. They’ve spent more than 600 total days aboard the ship Queen Mary 2.
“Anywhere the ship goes, we go,” Linda said. Among their destinations are Alaska, Tibet, India, China, above the Arctic Circle and the Galapagos Islands. Their most memorable stops were Thailand, Britain and Germany. They have an upcoming trip to Australia and look forward to touring South Africa, Namibia and Mauritius in the future. Their other collections include German steins, 78 rpm records and 500 bottles of French and California wine, for which they had a temperature-controlled wine cellar constructed in their basement. The most rare bottle is an ’86 Pétrus. Special meals call for special wine, and they always do their homework on what foods pair best with which variety of wine. Charles is a member of Frankford Lodge No. 292, Philadelphia, and a former District Deputy Grand Master. He and Linda visited Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on several occasions for Autumn Day. They were thrilled when the cottage they wanted became available.
When they moved in 2014, they took photos of the displays at their former home so they could replicate them in their cottage. In addition to housing their extensive collections, their home at Masonic Village offers a sense of peace and security. “I was a high school principal, and I never knew when I’d be home,” Linda said.
“It’s nice to just sit back and relax. There’s no maintenance here. We can sit and drink coffee while someone shovels our snow. If people ask, ‘What do you do now?’ I tell them, ‘Whatever I want.’” Linda and Charles also know when they travel, their home will be secure, and they’re surrounded by trustworthy neighbors. All they have to worry about is what destination to explore next. While their collections fill the corners of their home, it is the memories and stories of each item they truly cherish.
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Photo by resident Jim Lea
Vivid RECOLLECTIONS Jim Kehl knows a thing or two about history. As a professor of history at the University of Pittsburgh for 46 years, as well as a published author, he has passed along copious historical knowledge. At 100 years young, the Masonic Village at Sewickley resident has also lived it.
You can read about his military experiences in his memoir, “When Civilians Manned the Ships: Life in the Amphibious Fleet During WWII.” It highlights his time as a U.S. Navy Officer aboard the LSM 144. The LSM 144 was a Landing Ship Medium which, along with the larger Landing Ship Tank, made up the “Alligator Navy.” These ships were specially designed to deliver troops to enemy-held beaches during World War II. At 203.5 feet in length, the ship was described by one sailor as a “shoe box with a can mounted on it.”
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Life on the ship included becoming accustomed to seasickness, which grew worse during the frequent typhoons that broke 50 to 60-foot waves across the ship’s bow. Jim broke down the seasickness sufferers into three categories: fish-feeders, dry-heavers and old sea dogs.
“If an examination in later years had revealed that I had lost a kidney, lung or two tonsils, I would have known immediately that the loss came during my months in the Pacific,” he wrote. He also has an ingrained image of the word “diesel” misspelled as “deisel,” which was stenciled on pipes throughout the ship. Fortunately, the rest of the ship was without construction flaws.
One of the most memorable events of his service came when an explosion rocked the ship’s deck, sending men overboard. It was January 1945, and the ship had just loaded troops as part of the Invasion of Lingayen Gulf in the northern Philippines. At the same time, the ship was transporting more than 100 55-gallon drums of high-octane fuel to shore. Before the ship could take the 20-minute run to the beach, an alert was issued. A Japanese air strike was imminent, and the ship was ordered to make smoke so targets were not visible from the sky. Making smoke consisted of pulling oil from a drum into a generator and converting the oil into a vapor. The ship’s generator soon began to sputter, but the captain insisted that it keep running. A light rain began to fall, and wind began blowing the vapor across the stern. The engine sparked and exploded, resulting in a fiery cloud of about 40 feet in diameter. It only took two minutes to extinguish the flames, but in that time, 18 of the 100 infantry men on the deck jumped overboard.
A life raft was tossed to the men who were unable to grab the life preservers and rope thrown to them. These inexperienced soldiers were unable to row, and they drifted farther out to sea. Two sailors, Oehrn Koon, from Point Marion, PA, and Sam News, from Chester, PA, rowed out to the men to instruct them how to use the oars. Even with the instructions, the stranded soldiers could not overcome the current. Oehrn and Sam tied a rope to the raft, and for 30 minutes, they rowed the life boat safely back to the ship against the current.
The two men’s efforts were never formally recognized, and they received no citations. Jim made a point to stay connected with both until their passings. He still has a jar of Koon’s Pure Natural Honey, courtesy of Oerhn, and a custom-made leather jacket with USS LSM 144 embroidered in gold, which had belonged to Sam.
“I hold vivid remembrances; Oerhn and Sam left an unheralded legacy of which any American should be proud,” Jim wrote. It is not only Jim’s experiences that are noteworthy, but also his ability to re-tell them in a way that draws in readers. “Jim is by far the most eloquent expert in the world on the amphibious Navy of World War II,” said Todd DePastino, executive director of the Veterans Breakfast Club and a frequent guest speaker at the Masonic Village at Sewickley.
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“But it’s not his depth of knowledge or his beautiful writing that makes Jim most special. It’s his depth of character and remarkable insight into the human condition, including the best and worst of people caught up in war. “Aboard his ship were 54 men and five officers, a world in itself, a microcosm of breathtaking human diversity. And somehow, Jim is able to take note and analyze each aspect with humor, when needed, and reverence, when warranted. Jim saw integrity and pettiness, expertise and incompetence, cowardice and courage, all mingled together on one ship.” As a young man, Jim became interested in American political parties, and comments from his professors at the University of Pennsylvania further sparked his passion. He was told as an undergrad to work with one of the big names in political parties if he wanted to get ahead. His mentor was Roy Nichols, an American historian, who won the 1949 Pulitzer Prize for History for his book “The Disruption of American Democracy.” As a professor of history at the University of Pittsburgh, Jim served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He is especially proud of the changes he was able to make to the arts and sciences curriculum.
“I always admired good teachers,” he said. “And I wanted to follow in their footsteps. I’ve always thought that any course you taught was to be made interesting. Keep facts and ideas straight, but at the same time, blend in a little humor regularly. It kept undergrads on the edge of their seats.” In addition to teaching and writing about his service during World War II, Jim has written three other books: “Boss Rule in the Gilded Age: Matt Quay of Pennsylvania,” “The University Remembered: Personal Reflections on Pitt and a Few of Its People,” and his most recent, “The Cross, the Eagle, and the Rising Sun: The 1941 Vatican Conspiracy Vs. the Department of State.” His wife, Barbara, is his best critic. She edits his work and shares her opinion from a reader’s perspective. He’s currently working on an article about democracy and how compromise can get lost in today’s politics. With 100 years of stories, Jim has a lot more to share.
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“I always say, ‘you remember vividly, but not always accurately,’” he said. “Every time you tell a story, it’s a little different.” “His voice is that of an honest, smart, wise and ultimately kind man who went to war and came home forever changed by it,” Todd said. “He speaks for millions of others, and we’re lucky to still have him with us, at age 100.” History provides important lessons as a gift for future generations, and Jim’s generosity in sharing his stories is invaluable.
“I think Jim Kehl is a national treasure,” Todd said. “Those of us who get to learn from him should all feel privileged.”
A Charitable Alternative to DISPOSING OF YOUR IR A
By Alvin H. Blitz, Esq., Chief Development Officer for the Office of Mission Advancement and Development
Gift Planners in our office meet regularly with residents at each of the Masonic Village campuses to discuss estate planning strategies. Over the past several years, the rising stock market and number of individuals retiring with large retirement plans has contributed to a significant increase in the number of Traditional IRA owners with $500,000 or more in their accounts. In fact, the IRA is usually the largest asset in their estate.
Unfortunately, a traditional IRA is taxed as ordinary income to you AND to your heirs after they inherit it from you. Additionally, the law requires that anyone receiving your IRA, other than your spouse, must receive all funds from the inherited IRA within 10 years of the death of the owner they received it from. For large IRAs, that could be a significant tax hit, especially when such income is added on to other income of the recipient. If a family member is a spendthrift, he or she could take all the money out of the IRA at once to buy that new Tesla after paying all those taxes.
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Luckily, for the right person, there is a solution. Let me provide an example. I recently visited John and Jean at their villa at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. John retired eight years ago from UPMC and had rolled his retirement savings into an IRA. Over those 10 years, the IRA grew significantly to the point that it was the bulk of his estate assets. Jean worked for John’s rival Allegheny General Hospital and retired five years ago. She also had a nice nest egg in her retirement plan that she rolled over into an IRA.
Both of them wanted to know what to do with all this money when they pass the IRA assets onto their two children, Jane and Ted. The IRAs combined are now worth well over $2 million. They indicated their local Presbyterian Church and Masonic Village at Sewickley were in their current wills. I suggested they consider an alternative to giving the IRA outright to the kids and/or charity. Instead, I advised they could distribute the IRA to an Income for Life Trust (formally known as a charitable remainder unitrust or CRUT) and pay the kids 5% or more of the value of the assets in the trust each year for both their lives or, in the alternative, a period of up to 20 years. Once the trust ends, any remaining assets go to charity. As an added bonus, I told John and Jean that if Masonic Villages is a beneficiary of some of the remaining trust assets, then it would serve as trustee for no cost other than the investment fees. That way, they could be assured the Masonic Villages will take care of providing an income for their children during the term of the trust. Since the trust doesn’t take effect until the surviving spouse passes, they can always change their mind at any time during their lifetimes.
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John replied, “I really like this trust concept, but can I include my two grandchildren in the trust?” I answered, “Sure. If you do a 20-year trust, you can name anyone you want to receive part of the income distributions each year. You also save on PA Inheritance Taxes by using the trust.” John then asked me to send him a presentation outlining how the trust would work for him and the family. After reviewing the materials, they asked if I could recommend an attorney who was well-versed in these types of trusts to help advise them. After meeting with the attorney I recommended, they decided to do a 20-year Income for Life Trust for their children and grandchildren, with the remaining assets at the end of the 20-year period being split between their Presbyterian Church and Masonic Village at Sewickley. If you are interested in seeing how the Masonic Villages might be able to help you and your family with an Income for Life Trust for your IRA, fill out the enclosed business reply envelope, email us at giving@masonicvillages.org or call the Office of Mission Advancement and Development at 1-800-599-6454 to get your own Income for Life Trust Illustration. We look forward to helping you realize your estate and charitable planning dreams.
Thanks to Our Donors Memorial Gifts The following memorial gifts were made Nov. 1, 2021 - Jan. 31, 2022. Below is a list of individuals (names shown in blue) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to one of the five Masonic Villages. We have taken great care to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Mission Advancement and Development at 1-800-599-6454; 717-367-1121, ext. 33561; or by emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you. The following memorial was inadvertently missed in the Winter 2022 issue. We apologize for this error. Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson John T. Adkinson John W. Albaugh Clyde N. Albright
Cheryl Adkinson Suzanne Wojewodzki Janice Albright Stephen Gotwols and Janice Albright John and Jean Albright Robert Fulton Betty Amour John Grezlak Dieter and Ruth Andrae Renate Hylinski Catherine A. Anstine Roland and Carol Anstine Judy “Beth” Arbogast Ann Marie Hattala Mary L. Armel Denise Kovacs Harold and Joyce Arnold Michael and Barbara Legg Vincent W. Attaviano Marion Attaviano Claire Aurentz Terry and Barbara Lenker Pheobe J. Babel Allen and Doris Babel William Baker, Sr. Jane Baker Donald and Lillian Banzhof James and Donna Benedict Peter and Anna Barber Jo-Ann and Ray Foltz Virginia L. Barber Samuel Barber Irene Bardsley Raymond and Wendy George Carol Barkley John Barkley Luverne Barnette, Jr. Keith Barnette Sara and Philip Barsky Marilyn Barsky-Boccella Frederick E. Basehore Benton Dunkelberger Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club Betty Ann Beaman Craig and Patricia Beaman George E. Becker, Jr. Kathleen Brubaker Curtis G. Beidleman Michael Beidleman Howard A. Beiseigel John Beiseigel Ruth and William Best, Sr. Linda Muller Vicki Black Dan and Karen Stern John C. Blanck John Blanck DeWitt and Joanne Blank Linda Latronica Irene Blaskiewicz Shirley Wolf Kathryn Boone Betty Jane Green Anna Borek Josephine Prince Ellen Boyd Krista Shedlosky
Sarah Jane Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Brenner Evelyn L. Briel Helen L. Brockman
Chester W. Brown
Olin and Gladys Brubaker Mary D. Brucker Eula Bryant Edward Budman Charles and Hilda Buehler David E. Cale Alice Campbell Charles S. Canning Judy Marsicano Carey Nicholas A. Cascario Richard Casher Gaylon Cathcart Philip H. Chamberlin Nona Chern Alton E. Cherry, Jr. Hope Clark Eleanor J. Clarke Alva and Martha Cochran Delores Constanza
Mildred Mealey Andrew Latschar Thomas and Claudia Stephens Dwight and Lorna Davis Thomas Davis Robert and Donna Henning Lou, Deana, and John PS/IS 78Q Dean and Heidi Lundgren Michael and Carmen McKee John and Kathleen Ross Kathryn Shew-Felchle Terp and Casa Families Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Betsy Winger Kathleen Zelm Betty Deibert Dee Molinari Paul and Julie Proft Harley and Naomi Uber Karl Buus John and Susan Loehr Francis and Linda Quail Oscar and Angila Smith Clintin Probst and Karen Buehler-Probst Daniel and Gretchen Cale Melvin and Karen Campbell Marianne Canning Barry and Karen Chaskin Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Frances Casher Michael and Barbara Cathcart Alice Chamberlin Gary and Katherine Portnoy Karen Cherry George Friedline Sy Richardson Thomas and Carol Cochran Debra Miller MasonicVillages.org
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James C. Corbett James Corbett Dixie Lee Corwin Richard Corwin Clarence J. Cox Carla Cox Darlene Crawford Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Joy Crawford Mason Crawford Mason Crawford Southampton Square Club Walter L. Cressler, Jr. Anita Cressler Catherine Fleming Crouch Kate Crouch Wayne V. Dallas Warren and Donna Dallas Lester A. Danenhower Gene and Diane Danenhower Josephine Dare Robert Dare Weldon T. Darnell Mildred Darnell Donald G. and Irma M. Davidson William and Nancy Davidson Dorothy E. Davis George Rendell Jason L. Dean Richard Dean John Deem Gene Steele Thomas P. DeFroscia Patty DeFroscia Charles F. Deiterich James and Sara Bishop Departed Loved Ones Peter and Rebecca Duncan Walter and Nancy DePrefontaine Leslie DePrefontaine Chester A. Derk Sr. and Marian E. Derk Chester and Barbara Derk Henry D. Detwiler Elizabeth Wagner Vic and Dotty DeWeese William DeWeese Mr. and Mrs. Arthur DiCicco Frank DiCicco Robert P. Dickson Margaret Dickson Harold C. Dietrich Robert and Erika Haldeman Arthur L. Dinger Darwin Chilcote Ord L. Dixon Jean Dixon Robert L. Douty Barbara Douty Laura W. Dove Albert Dove Brooks S. Doyle, Sr. Keith Doyle Gladys J. Dunmire James Dunmire Walter F. Dyer George Ullrich Harry W. Earl Christine Earl Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Eberly Jeffrey Eberly Joseph W. Eby and Christina Eby Marjory Eby Bob Edge Pat Edge Jack Edmondsen Rachelle and David Bimler Jim and Edna Edsall Mark and Maureen Edsall Mary and Les Ehringer Toni Drabant Anna Mae Eiceman Berle Eiceman Joseph Elizeus Joel and Margaret Elizeus Walter Elvidge Walter H. Elvidge, Jr. Walter H. Elvidge, Sr. Walter H. Elvidge, Jr. Laura and John Enie Carl and Carol Willis John Entrekin III Beatrice Entrekin Daniel Epstein Michael Beidleman 22
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James L. Ernette Glen Eshleman Dwight and Mary Fetterhoff Margaret M. Finley
Blaine and Audrey Winfield Kim and Mike English Donna Robinson Linda Herbert Dennis and Carolyn Nace Helen Fisher Cynthia Miffitt Helen L. Fisher Robert Fisher Loretta Fitzgerald Kathleen Mitri Theresa Fitzpatrick Thomas and Margaret Carcanague Steve and Margie Johnson Thomas Fleming Norman and Deborah Meanor Carl Flohr Arlene Flohr Frank Foutz Elizabeth Foutz Robert C. Frederick Frances Frederick Marjorie Fredriksen Kristen Dalton Andrew O. Friedrich Andrew and Donna Friedrich Charles G. Frishmuth Ronald and Katherine Frishmuth Stephen and J. Lorraine Jordan William and Virginia Fusco Angela Nolfi Rudolf and Mary Galli Marina Galli Nicholas and Andrea Galli Adrienne Garafola Frank Garafola John Elmer Garman Melvin and Barbara Garman Margaret Garrison Bruce and Joan Howarth Mary C. Garrison David and Debra Rosensteel Richard J. Genova Karin Genova Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Walter K. Gerber Ann Berlin Charles and Carol Curry Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club Bryan and Eileen Hill Donald Geyer Laura A. Michener-Pladus Harrison W. Gift III Dolores Gift Elizabeth F. Gilinger and Harry Gilinger, Jr. Grace Stettenbauer Janet (Haldeman/Mitchell) Ginther Robert and Erika Haldeman Bernadine V. Glosser Dennis and Brenda Loveless Sam Goldstein Philip Goldstein Alvin Goodman Director and Personnel of the National Security Agency Martin and Doris Gotsch Jane and Joseph Bruton Donald and Helen Gregg Amy Fassett Barbara O’Hagan Shirley Rich Helen Gregg Beth Campbell Glen Griffith Bertram and Patsy Griffith James Grimm Margaret Grimm Paul J. Gross George and Beverly Gross Richard E. Haas Margaret Haas Jonathan Hackenyos Ken and Elaine Bleiler
Ruth Hagan Joseph and Joyce Hagan William C. Haldeman Robert and Erika Haldeman Joan H. Hall William Hall Ralph and Dorothy Hamm Dennis and Elaine Hamm Ervin C. Hamme Jenni Fackler Paul S. Hand Darlene Hand Frederick (Rick) Hansen Carolyn Snyder Eva S. Hardy Harold Hardy Robert C. Harling Jeffrey and Lou-Ann Fenstermacher Felix I. Harper Richard and Gail Scott-Harper Leroy Harpster Jeffrey and Lou-Ann Fenstermacher Joel and Diane Harrar James and Ann Harrar Ruth H. Hasenauer Mary Jane Keim Victor E. Hauze Dale and Mary Hauze Richard Hawk Frank and Nancy Beppler H. Barry Heaps Eileen Heaps Shillen P. Heim Clifford Heim Gladys Heisey Lloyd and Laura Heisey Wilmer P. Helm Frederick and Barbara Helm Sterling P. Hepler Duane and Nancy Hepler Wilbur R. Herr Doris and Kenneth Beane Elizabeth Hess Don and Madeline Hennon Paul Hess Paula Hess Jack E. Hestor Janet Hestor Leonard I. Hill, Jr. Aura Hill Bunn Robert J. Hirsch Matthew Hirsch Jerome L. and Kathryn Hitz Paul Thompson Jane F. Hoenich Paul Eshenaur Russell and Kathleen Horoschak Dale Leonard Barbara O’Neal Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Daniel and Linda West Deb Hoffman Dennis and Kathy Brown Bill Hoin Shirley Wolf J. Richard Hollinger David and Jane Hollinger Clarence and Inez Hoopes Donald Hoopes Martha Hoover Ralph and Diann Hoover William B. Hornberger John and Cindy Hornberger Emma V. and Ralph C. Horne Mary Anne Cooling Kay L. Horst Edward Horst John F. and Violet J. Hull Glenn Hull Kenton E. Hull June Hull Rudy Hummel Joan Hummel David R. “Dave” and Alicia J. “Lee” Hunsberger 40th Masonic District Marc and Karen Hunsberger Timothy and Fay Pletcher Spring-Ford Lodge No. 553
Louise M. Hitchinson Thomas W. “Tom” Jackson
Kathryn Barone Richard and Kay Bigley Ellen Harkins Bryan and Eileen Hill Bill and Kathy Prazenica Red Cross of Constantine, Eastern Regional Assembly Janet Rose Charles Jacobs David and Anne Marie Hartman Michael J. Jenkins Marjorie Jenkins Carolyn E. Jeranek Walter Jeranek Virgil Johnston Joel and Margaret Elizeus Betty Jane (McKelvey) Jonosy Jim and Derna Bish Betty Jonosy Penny Lohr Barbara M. Jordan James Jordan Edwin Junkin Richard and Pauline Anglin James Kable Maureen Cornell Sheldon Kaplan Patricia Hill-Kaplan David E. Keesey Juanita Keesey Lee and Kathleen Kegris Judith Edwards-Leese Dennis and Patricia Kegris Malvern C. “Mac” Keifer, Jr. Mary Lou Keifer Adrienne J. Keiser Larry Keiser Ronald J. Kerstetter Jeffrey and Catherine Mathias Catherine Kessler Gary Hihn C. Wilson “Wils” Kile Jim Heckman Bruce and Joan Howarth Gerald and Pat Kemmerer Patricia M. Kilkenny Catherine McKinney Francis E. Kinter Roger and Stephanie Traub Thelma M. Kinter Roger and Stephanie Traub Richard Kirschner Susan Helm Robert P. “Bob” Kist Byron and Jan Ensor Michelle Haring Edward and Marie Herman Earl M. Kline Eugene and Anna Kline Mae Kline Eugene and Anna Kline Otto M. Kline Janet Townsend Helen Knelly Denise Dougherty John Kolchin Barbara Kolchin Robert L. Koser Steven Koser and Diana Murphy Ella Kramers John Prosser Veronica and Sam Krnjaich Dorothy Krnjaich Theodore B. Krouse Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Kathleen L. Kuhn Ray and Patricia Horn Linda Kurtz Kay Duffy Gerald Kyler Bea Mitro George F. and Viola F. Lance Lester and Mary Moll Roy M. Landers Mary Landers Bruce Robinson MasonicVillages.org
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Arlene R. Laubach Mary Yeager Grace E. Laubach Mary Yeager M. Frank Lawrence Virginia Lawrence Hilda A. Lehman David and Jeannette Thomas Rosemary A. Leininger Kevin and Thomasina Marie Fry Charles Leis Chris Reynolds Kathryn B. Leneyel Virginia Haupt Roland and Ruth Lenker Judith Rankin Ruth Lenker Terry and Barbara Lenker Edwina Sherrie Letcher William Letcher Louis Charles Lewis, Sr. William Lewis Arthur Linington George and Kathleen Gonzalez Faye Hitz Lokey John Lokey Matthew London Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Carol Longenecker James and Erin Tierney Anthony and Jean Loy Clintin Probst and Karen Buehler-Probst George and Anna Margaret Lubic Jill Swartz Rita Vorkapich John T. Lutz Mahlon and Christine Fuller Madeline Lutz Norman Lutz Bernard Herman Lyman Alan and Pat Conway Carol Dougherty Palestine-Roxborough Lodge No. 135 Chris Reynolds Rhona Schwartz Bruce and Susan Supowitz Albert K. Lynn Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Richard F. Maffett, Sr. Richard and Barbara Maffett Lawrence A. Marks Geraldine Marks Michael S. “Skip” Markone James Allen Earl and Alice Graby Joseph C. Martin Francine and Richard Desmarais Lance and Amy Martin Tracey Lynn Martin Rosilyn Martin Darlene D. Martz Richard Martz Marie Massa Michael and Rebecca Maxwell Robert H. Mateer William and Helen Kreider Frank and Mary Matesevac Thomas Matesevac Audrey J. McBride Gregg McBride Lisa McBride Clair E. McCall Eva McCall Kenneth and Sandra McCall Marion McCallion Alan Warnick Byron McCollum Hanna McCollum Willis I. McCord, Jr. Richard McCord Lavonna T. “Bonnie” McDowell Jim and Betty Gotta Bryan and Eileen Hill Ronald and Judy McKnight 24
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Joseph C. McGill, Jr. Elizabeth J. McQue John P. Meister Robert R. Melisko Adele and Phil Mendelsohn Patricia Mentz David John Merriman Dorothy Meszaros Paul E. Meyers Doris May Miller Harvey R. Miller John B. Miller Joyce Miller Patricia A. Miller Sophia T. Miller Lillian Milliron Harry S. Mills, Sr. Harry and Mary Mills William A. Monahan Edward H. Monefeldt Don Morgan Donald A. Moyer Martha L. Muir R. M. Mullis Melvin A. Mumaw Frank Murawski Ronald E. Muschlitz Ethel M. Myers Gertrude Myers Leon C. Myers Margaret Myers Michael Nass James C. Nickle
Blair and Kathy McGill Robert McQue, Sr. John Meister Judith Melisko Judy and Larry Marcus William Mentz Robert Glasser Kenneth and Rebecca Reigle Donald Meyers Robert and Sandra Preusch Rachelle Miller Rick and Dotti Miller Jo Ann Malone Patricia Pisarek Masonic Village Travel Club Eric and Lois Milliron Skip and Elizabeth Mills Skip and Elizabeth Mills Frank and Ginny Hartlage Anne and Alberto Gaglianese David and Nancy Halliwell John and Joan Lee Wayne Muir James Thompson Ruth Mumaw Lorraine Murawski Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Joyce Myers-Brown Stephen and Kathy Kiessling Jay and Bonita Myers Melvin and Karen Campbell Christine Nass Thomas and Terry Kamerzel Terry Kamerzel Thomas and Deborah Nickle Howard and Betty Nolf Nancy and Richard Talley George Novatnak Donna Nooney Thomas O’Donnell Harry and Christine Habecker Dorothy Olweiler Jacob and Nancy Olweiler Roy Parker Ronald and Susan Parker David Parsons Southampton Square Club J. Nyce Patterson Rick and Fay Patterson Roy E. Patterson Norma Patterson James D. Pearce William Pearce Tammy Perry Matt Mayo Victor E. Pessano Vicki Pessano Ricky L. “Rick” Peterson Susan Armburger The Staff at Dauphin County Department of Public Safety
George and Vera Phillippe Beatrice K. Phillips Rose Poley Mary E. Pope R. Hampton Pope Darrell E. Powell Sylvia Proctor William Quinter Jack E. Rankin Linda L. Rankin H. Stanley Redline Kay and Jinny Reed Berneice Reigle Martin and Esther Rentschler Robert H. Ressler Elmer H. Rex Joseph T. Rex Doris and Bill Reynolds Herb Reynolds Joan Reynolds Dora Rhodes Richard W. Rice
Jay Phillippe John Phillips Robert Poley John Pope John Pope Frederick Powell Olinthia Spragins Kevin and Terri Quinter Judith Rankin Judith Rankin Duane and Doris Redline James and Virginia Miller Kenneth and Rebecca Reigle Rodney Rentschler Robert and Barbara Ressler Richard and Hilda Criswell Richard and Hilda Criswell Robert and Diana Reynolds Robert and Diana Reynolds Robert and Diana Reynolds Harold Rhodes Ken and Elaine Bleiler Jay and Cathy Cooke Charles and Carol Curry Donegal Chapter No. 422 O.E.S. Bryan and Eileen Hill Edith Hollinger Mahlon and Joan Ressel Fred and Mary Jane Sample Mr. and Mrs. John Simolike Margaret H. Richard Herman Richard Fritz Riley David Riley Ruth M. Rissmiller Edward and Ann Horting Harry “Pete” Robertson Charles and Jean Johns Jenny Rodger Linda and Barry Brown Robert L. Rohrbaugh Isabel Rohrbaugh Gloria Rolston Michael and Trudy Failor Chew Rose Gilbert Miller Robert W. and Natalie H. Roth Karen Martin Larry Roup Jill Roup Solomon K. Rudman Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Walter F. and Elisabeth P. Ruffer Carolyn Ruffer Elinore and Charlie Ruhl Mary Berlage Mabel Ruhlandt Eric Luznar Glenn L. Runk Phyllis Runk Charles L. and Sue C. Rush Patricia and Stephen Gombocz Edward and Ruth Rutter Anthony and Linda Ambrose Lori Sachs Bea Mitro
Helen Saintz Rose Samans
Kerry Saintz Frank Lerman Steven and Beth Weiner William and Rose Samans Steven and Beth Weiner James H. Sample Georganne Sample David E. Samuel and Joan E. Samuel Barbara Samuel Mary E. Sardello Antoinette Petrucci Billie J. Savickas John Savickas Esther Scheuermann John Letsch and Adalena Wilson Philip Max Schiebel Boyle Construction, Inc. Deborah Frey Dave and Pat Huszar Noel and Alice Peters David and May Schirm, Sr. David and Debra Schirm George Schmitt Marg Shelley Irma Georgette Schnabel Ken and Mary Jane Schnabel John Schultice Taylor and Carol Fox Rosalyn M. Schwartz Jayne and Niornan White Ray E. and Margaret M. Seamens Howard and Donna Seamens Jack O. Searle Edward and Madeline Searle Henry S. Seitz John Seitz Kenneth R. Shafer Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Arthur L. Shaffer II Bill Young John R. Shaffer Houseman Lodge No. 211 John M. Shaud, Jr. Mary Shaud David “Bill” Shearer George Ullrich Donald Shearer Rosemary Shearer Dolores E. Sheehan Michael and Eileen Sheehan Harold Ray Sheetz Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Martin Sherman Earl Harris Elmer E. Shetter Richard and Pauline Anglin Dolores Shott Thomas Shott Melvin and Lucille Shroyer Nancy Baker Elvin F. “Al” Silvius Masonic Village Amateur Radio Club, K3WEB Melanie Senitko Morris Slosberg Barry and Joann Slosberg Anna May Smith Dolores Demski Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Robert and Ann Hall Janice Miller Thomas and Gail Rzepka Sue Schmidt Frances Simpkins Anna May Smith The Karlesses Family Joan Wielgoszinski George A. Smith Houseman Lodge No. 211 Lester V. Smith, Sr. Douglas and Gloria Smith MasonicVillages.org
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Mr. and Mrs. Ralph H. Smith Richard E. Smith, Sr. E. Jere Snavely Emma F. Snyder
William and Judith Kauffman Alethia Smith Earl and Alice Graby Janet Barsey Dennis and Peggy Grove Sherry and Jesse Pollock Joyce Rocks Randy and Patricia Warfel Roland Snyder Carolyn Snyder Ruth Speer Laurie, Jack and Karen Earl and Myrl Speicher George and Sandra Martin Robert Stark Matt Mayo Lynn Steckley Jim and Betty Gotta Ruth Steeb Peter and Mary Steeb A. Kenneth Stevenson Andrew and Gale Stevenson James Robert Stewart Joan Stewart Peggy L. Hackman-Stohler Carl and Evelyn Hackman Kenneth L. “Ken” and Jean L. Strohm Kenneth and Linda Strohm Tom Strohm Robert L. and Irene M. Stuebner Constance Firing Richard Stuncard James and Caroline Stuncard Robert Suckling MaryLou Suckling William Sullivan, Jr. Dino and Theresa Fonsemorti Cheryl McNamara Dale and Glenna Taylor Michael R. Swierczynski Houseman Lodge No. 211 Bob and Marie Swift Sandra Bingaman Karen Swope Ronald Swope John C. Tassey Toni Tassey Shirley A. Tate John Tate Miriam Taylor Robert Taylor Robert Edward “Bob” Telford William and Martha Addams Boozer Howard and Mary Bernstein Peggy Chriss Joyce Crossley Anthony and Beverly Disciascio and Family EDSI Team of Cumberland, Juaniata, Lebanon & Perry Counties Deanna and Dale Erdman Candy and Sam Gruber James and Cynthia Hossman Jeannie Jameson Reese Jenkins, Rene Jenkins, Dawn Jenkins & Dan Fulghum Tina Latin-True John and Linda Melham William and Amy Reed The Smith Family: David, Karen and Logan 26
Spring 2022 Issue
Robert Edward “Bob” Telford
Gilbert Telford and Marilyn Schnoars Sandeep Thakrar Doris M. Terek Mary & Denny Petricoin and Debbie & Mike Keener Brian Thomas Andrea H. Heasley and Family Charles Thomas William and Jamie Spero Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson William A. and Margaret Thorpe Caryl and Daniel Waters Samuel John Topley II Jacqueline Topley L. Forrest Townsend Janet Townsend Charles and Inez Twesten Judith and Charles Rehm Gregory M. Ulsh Natalie Ulsh Esther M. Umberger Kenneth Umberger Barbara J. Ursiny Francis Ursiny George N. Vurdelja Bachman Snyder Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. Robert E. Watkins, Sr. Robert and Annette Watkins Elizabeth A. Weamer Harriet Reiner Joseph L. Weber Lucille Weber Dorothy F. Webster George and Loretta Boettger Marvin M. Wedeen Michael and Toby Alexander Patty and Tim Burch Frances Merryman David and June Nimick Ralph J. Weiss, Jr. Ralph Weiss Richard E. Weitzel David Weitzel Martha and Robert White Carol White James Whittington Thomas and Phyllis Cercone Margaret Wightman Joyce Freeman Henry M. Wildasin Ann Wildasin William O. Wilkins, Jr. Carolyn Wilkins Richard J. Williams Carolyn Williams David Winter Loretta Winter Ethel Winter Richard and Dorothy Winter Anna E. Wolf Bob and Jean Bleacher Betty Pettitt James H. Wolf, Jr. Dorothy Wolf Walter L. Wolf Marjorie Jenkins Filbert G. Yost Toni Tassey John P. Young Donnis Young Your Parents Charles and Donna Breneman Bill and Carla Fishel Your Parents and Grandparents Wesley and Wendi Rittenhouse Michael Zelinski Patricia Zelinski Ethel Zell Paul and Jane Kinsey Doug Zima Tina Zima Betsy Zimmerman George Zimmerman Carrilee J. Zimmerman Daryl and Dena Zimmerman
Honorarium Gifts The following honorarium gifts were made Nov. 1, 2021 - Jan. 31, 2022. Below is a list of individuals (names shown in blue) whose loved ones have made a gift in their honor to one of the five Masonic Villages. Yasser A. Al-Khatib Luverne Barnette, Sr. Mark Barwin Jane Beach Helen Bell Milana K. “Mim” Bizic Robert C. Black Mallory L. Brinser Joey Calabro Jane M. Cale
Fritz Lodge No. 308 Keith Barnette Kevin Barwin Don and Shirley Miller Gordon and Joan Bell Lex and Jill Medich Robert Yates Steven Koser and Diana Murphy Jeff Kenton Daniel and Gretchen Cale Michael and Connie McKee Charity Lodge No. 144 John and Joan Lee Joe Crawford Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Crawford Lodge No. 234 William Smith Frank and Grace Cunnane Lynn Cunnane Millie Darnell Louise Martorana Dennis and Carolyn Dendler Vernon and Patricia Bright Ann L. Dinsmore Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club Henry and Nan Dreher Cory Collister Wilma A. Epler Jay and Wilma Epler Paul Eshenaur Betty Deibert Ethel C. Eshleman Kim and Mike English Jean Fales Lynn Clements Dorothy Fisher Eddie and Cheryl Miller Theresa Fitzpatrick Ronald and Gloria Miccarelli G. Emory Freet Kay Freet Jean C. Frishmuth Ronald and Katherine Frishmuth Stephen and J. Lorraine Jordan Michael Greenawalt Kay Duffy Donald E. Gregg Shirley Rich Marion W. Grochowski Sheryl Allston Elizabeth Hahn Louis Hahn Jan Harms Steven Koser and Diana Murphy Bridget Harris Carl Tarbell Roger Hehemann Carl Tarbell Jim Heidler Anne and Alberto Gaglianese Bob Helm Barbara Link Stanley Hughes Phyllis and Stanley Hughes Audrey Hummel Lew Hummel Henry H. Hummel Lew Hummel Juanita M. Keesey Barry and Lynn Totten, Kevin and Loretta Keesey, Kim and Jim Norton and Kathy Gross Joanne M. Kerridge Beatrice Kerridge Cindy Kersey Carl Tarbell Don Kugle James and Jean Tebay Kara LaFreeda Carl Tarbell Carol Laskin Ira Cooperman
Laura, Susan, Peggy and Lynne Dean and Brenda Miller Marjorie Learn Susan Shildt Molly Lerman Frank Lerman Ashley Brooke Linuto Robert Armstrong Dominick Lizzi David and Alda Lizzi George B. Lohr Jake Lohr Laura Audrey Marschka Daniel Marschka Isabel Penny Martin Lance and Amy Martin Ruth and Tom Mason Scott Mason Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Hospice Steven Koser and Diana Murphy Ronald Swope Gregg D. McBride Lisa McBride Harry and Carol McCurdy James and Jean Tebay Melita Lodge No. 295 Alison Schaefer Deanne Molinari James and Jean Tebay Betty L. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel June Novatnak Donna Nooney Office of Mission Advancement and Development Staff Luther and Kim Zarfoss Wayne Pence Barbara Brown Mary Joan Pessano Vicki Pessano Trudy Plunkett Carl Tarbell Chris Reynolds Robert and Diana Reynolds Lois Reynolds Robert and Diana Reynolds Roosevelt 2 Staff Steven L. Koser and Diana K. Murphy Michael and Joan Kuhn John B. Satterthwaite Mary Ann and Edwin Stasiak Ed and Ruth Sattler Alan and Barbara Anderson Stephanye Smith Heath and Holly Mackley Bryan Sparks Carl Tarbell Clint Spiegel Dee Molinari Barbara Steer John Hunsberger Jane Strock Anne and Alberto Gaglianese Melissa Sudduth Carl Tarbell Nettie Terreri Adele Binns Deborah Valiton-Carnish Brock Brockman A. Preston Van Deursen Steven Koser and Diana Murphy Joyce Wadsworth Milton Coll Washington 4 Staff Brock Brockman Paul and Shirley Weaver James and Jean Tebay Ralph J. Weiss, Sr. Ralph Weiss, Jr. Mildred Wilson Christine and Richard Frey Bill and Sharon Witter James and Jean Tebay Jeff Wonderling John and Ruth Habel Lynn Yost Steve and Cindy Oak Donnis Young Larry Young MasonicVillages.org
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OUR MISSION: To empower and inspire our Masonic Community to achieve their potential and enjoy the highest possible quality of life by being a Center of Excellence in providing person-centered residential, health care and wellness services, home and community-based services, outreach services and ancillary operations. Enjoy Life Your Way | MasonicVillages.org | Find us on Facebook and Instagram
