In Memoriam: Gerald R. Ford

38TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, IN OFFICE AUGUST 9, 1974 - JANUARY 29, 1977

Born July 14, 1913. called home by the Grand Architect December 26, 2006.

Masonic Record:

Initiated September 30, 1949, Malta Lodge No. 465, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Fellowcraft and Master Mason Degrees were conferred by Columbia No. 3, Washington, DC.

On April 20 and May 18, 1951, as a courtesy to Malta Lodge, Brother Ford was made a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33º, and Honorary Member Supreme Council A.A.S.R., Northern Jurisdiction at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia, on September 26, 1962, for which he served as Exemplar for his Class.

Brother Ford was unanimously elected and Active Member of the International supreme Council, Order of De Molay and its Honorary Grand Master, at its Annual Session held in Orlando, Florida, April 6-9, 1975. Brother Ford held this post until January 1977 at which time he became a Past Honorary Grand Master, receiving his collar and jewel on October 24, 1978, in Topeka, Kansas, from the Hon.Thomas C. Raum, Jr., Grand Master, Order of De Molay.

The Man from Michigan has been called home. While he lay in repose under the Capitol dome Hundreds of mourners filed past his bier. And, on passing, not a few shed a tear.

Many could remember when, in seventy-four, Thrust into the presidency, he would restore Integrity to the government, which Nixon lost, Vowing to do it regardless of cost.

A president of the people more so than the last, He acquitted himself well in the role he was cast. Though his tenure was short in the presidential role, His accomplishments were many achieving his goal.

In a speech he said, “I’m a Ford not a Lincoln”. He was, also, a thirty-third degree Mason. Possessing qualities of both which, I feel, Among his peers gave him wide appeal.

He was unassuming, fair-minded and kind. Attributes in world leaders hard to find. But which, in his life, held him in good stead Among his countrymen whom he once led.

And now, fulfilling His promise of life immortal, The Grand Architect opened the Golden Portal. And, in recognition of a life well spent, Welcomed home His good and faithful servant.

by Leslie L. Newton, Jr.

Dear Grand Secretary: Upon learning of the passing of our esteemed Brother and on viewing the impressive and moving ceremonies associated with his funeral, I was moved to write the attached verse as a memorial to his memory. I understand he was raised in Columbia Lodge No. 3 in The District. I would be appreciative if you would forward it to the Brethren of the Lodge with my condolences and fraternal greetings. If you find the poem worthy of further dissemination, feel free to pass it along. Fraternally, Leslie L. Newton, Jr., PM Triangle Lodge No. 1 Portland, ME