Cornerstone Magazine Spring 2025

CORNERSTONE

Michigan Masons

SPRING 2025 ISSUE 17

Heart & Home A Journey of Community & Connection

Your Golden Years Planning for Them While It's Still A Choice

Building Safer Communities The Growing Impact of the Child ID Program

Evolving with Purpose & Living with Passion

Table of Contents 03 04 06 Farewell Message from Our Grand Master

Heart & Home: Yvonne Amble's Story

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Igniting a Lifelong Passion: Josh DeBolt's Story

Planning for Your Golden Years

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The Growing Impact of the Child ID Program

Congratulations to the following lodges who raised Master Masons from October through January!

Allegan #111 Alma #244 Ann Arbor-Fraternity #262 Architect-University #569 Bedford #207 Belding-Ionia #355 Bethel #358 Brooklyn #169 Byron #80 Cadillac Clam Lake #331 Cedar #60 Centre #273 Composite #499 Copper Country #135 Corinthian #241 Farmington #151 Fidelity #513 Flushing #223 Garden City #587 Page 2

Grand Blanc #571 Grand Ledge #179 Grand Rapids #34 Holly #134 Iron Mountain #388 James A. Cliff #424 L'Anse #547 Les Cheneaux #590 Livonia United #152 Manchester #148 Monroe #27 Myrtle #89 Mystic #141 Northwood-Ancient Craft #551 Olive #156 Ortonville #339 Owosso #81 Parma #183 Peninsular #10

Plymouth Rock #47 Port Huron #58 Richmond #187 Rockford #246 Roseville #522 Saugatuck #328 Smith's Creek #491 Solomon's Key #580 St. Joseph #437 Tecumseh #69 THE Brotherhood Lodge #468 Union of S.O. #3 Vandalia #290 Verona-Huron #365 Wayne #112 Welfare #517 Wolverine #484

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Spring 2025

Grand Master's B

rethren,

Farewell Message

As my term as Grand Master comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the past year and express my gratitude to each of you. Serving this esteemed fraternity has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

Throughout this year, we have faced challenges and celebrated triumphs together. Your unwavering support and dedication have been the cornerstone of our success. It is through our collective efforts that we have continued to uphold the values and traditions that make our fraternity strong.

I am proud of what we have accomplished together. From our charitable endeavors to our community outreach, we have made a positive impact that will be felt for years to come. Our commitment to brotherhood and service has never been stronger.

As I step down, I am confident that the future of our fraternity is in capable hands.

I encourage you all to continue striving for excellence and to support our incoming leadership with the same enthusiasm and dedication you have shown me.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve as your Grand Master. It has been a remarkable journey, and I look forward to continuing to support our fraternity in any way I can.

Fraternally yours,

Eugene E. Abbaticchio Grand Master of Michigan

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Spring 2025

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Heart & Home A Journey of Community & Connection

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he Michigan Masonic Home has been a place of care, community, and connection for generations, and no one embodies that spirit quite like Yvonne Amble. A resident since 2011, Yvonne has become a familiar face and a cherished member of our community. We’re excited to share a bit about her life and the impact she’s had on those around her.

Originally from Illinois, Yvonne moved to Michigan at the young age of five when her father’s work at a gas plant came to an end. Her family’s early years in Michigan involved moving frequently, but they eventually settled in Harrison, where Yvonne began high school.

It was in the halls of Harrison High School that Yvonne met her future husband, Charles. They started dating at the end of their sophomore year and quickly became inseparable. By the end of their senior year, Charles proposed, solidifying their bond before he was drafted into the Army and sent overseas. After two years apart, the couple reunited and began their lives together, building a family and a legacy of love and service.

Yvonne and Charles raised four children: Linda, Mike, David, and Joe, and were later blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

While Charles worked as an engineer for General Motors, Yvonne dedicated herself to her role as manager of the hot lunch program at Mackinaw Middle School in Saginaw, a position she held for an impressive twenty-eight years.

Charles, a proud Mason and member of Houghton Lake Lodge #579, introduced Yvonne to Masonry through lodge dinners, where she experienced the sense of community that Page 4

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Spring 2025

Freemasonry embodies. It was at these events that Yvonne discovered the Order of the Eastern Star, ultimately joining the Martha Washington Chapter #113, where she would go on to become a lifetime member!

In 2011, Yvonne’s children encouraged her and Charles to make the Home their next chapter, knowing it would be the perfect place for them to enjoy their golden years together. For Yvonne, the Home was already a place of fond memories; her mother, Tressie Drake, spent the last five years of her life here, enjoying the warmth and care of the community. Yvonne and Charles knew this would be the perfect place to live.

After seventy-one wonderful years of marriage, Yvonne became widowed. In the wake of her loss, she found comfort in the Michigan Masonic Home, calling it “the next best thing to being at home.”

She has embraced the community wholeheartedly,

forming connections with residents and staff alike.

Today, Yvonne finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoys taking peaceful walks around the beautiful Michigan Masonic Home campus, crocheting intricate pieces, putting together dollhouses, and spending time on the iconic front porch. At ninety-nine years old, her positivity and gratitude for life at the Home are inspiring, making her a cherished member of our community.

Yvonne’s life is a testament to the power of love, family, and perseverance. She is a shining example of the values we hold dear at the Michigan Masonic Home: connection, service, and a commitment to making every day meaningful. Her story reminds us all of the lives that make up the fabric of the Michigan Masonic Home. We extend our appreciation to Yvonne Amble, not only for this feature, but also for the role she plays in making our community special.

Assisted Living

Memory Care at

Michigan Masonic Home is excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new Assisted Living Memory Care Unit. While this unit is not yet open, we are eager to share the details of our state-of-the-art facility, designed specifically to meet the unique needs of individuals with cognitive challenges.

Once open, it will offer a secure and nurturing environment with personalized care and support. Our dedicated team is here to assist you throughout the process. To learn more and schedule a tour, please contact our Admissions team at (800) 321-9357 or visit our website at michiganmasonichome.com Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Spring 2025

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Planning for Your Golden Years:

Preparing While It’s a Choice, Not a Necessity

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s we age, planning for the future becomes increasingly important. Taking proactive steps to secure your golden years can significantly reduce the burden on your family and ensure a smoother transition into retirement and long-term care. Chris Takacs, a thirty-three year member and past master of Three Oaks Lodge #239, and his wife, Charlene King-Takacs, share their journey and insights on the importance of planning ahead.

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Charlene, fifty-nine, is an Associate Specialty Claims Consultant for Hanover Insurance Company. Her husband, Chris Takacs, sixty, provides services through Takacs In-Home Dog Training. Married for eight years, the couple currently live in Merrillville, Indiana.

When asked about their motivation to start planning for their golden years, Charlene and Chris emphasized the lessons learned from their parents' lack of planning. "Our parents didn’t plan

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Spring 2025

for their future during their golden years, which left us determined to do better for ourselves and each other," they explained. They believe it is best to plan while it is a "want to" rather than a "have to" due to age or circumstance, as hasty decisions made under stress can be damaging.

Choosing a continuing care facility is a significant decision. Chris, a Michigan Mason, felt that the Michigan Masonic Home and the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation were valuable resources. "For too many members, these two entities are not considered as valuable resources in considering life’s challenges or planning for our later years," he said. Charlene agreed, adding that the facility's consistent positive ratings were another factor in their decision.

The couple's main concerns during the selection process included the facility's amenities, staff professionalism, and the overall environment. They were impressed by the campus upgrades and the comfortable, inviting atmosphere. "The fact that it provides multiple living opportunities to match the

"Planning for the future has brought Charlene and Chris peace of mind and a sense of security." different phases that each of us goes through in life is a great benefit," Chris noted.

During their tour, Charlene and Chris were struck by the facility's accommodating atmosphere and the professionalism of the staff. "The visit, tour, and explanation of application and benefits was a very nice experience," Chris said. They appreciated the variety of living arrangements available, which cater to different lifestyle needs and phases of life.

Looking ahead, Charlene and Chris hope to spend their later years in peace and contentment. They now

have a better understanding of the benefits at their disposal and the planning and adjustments needed to prepare for the future. "We would encourage everyone to not put off this kind of research and planning because you feel, 'That is for old people.'

Tomorrow is promised to no one and life happens on your way to do other things" Chris advised.

Planning for the future has brought Charlene and Chris peace of mind and a sense of security. They faced challenges during the planning process but overcame them through thorough research and open communication. They stress the importance of planning ahead for retirement and long-term care, as it can significantly impact one's current lifestyle and future well-being.

Additional Steps to Consider: 1. Creating a Will: A will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can prevent potential disputes among family members. It's a crucial document for anyone planning their estate.

2. Medical Advocate and Durable Power of Attorney: Designating a medical advocate and setting up a durable power of attorney allows someone you trust to make medical and financial decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

3. Pre-paid Funeral Arrangements: Pre-paying for your funeral can alleviate financial stress on your family during an already difficult time. It also ensures that your final wishes are respected.

4. Family Discussions: Openly discussing your plans with family members can help them understand your wishes and reduce confusion or conflict in the future. It’s important to communicate your decisions and the reasons behind them.

Taking proactive steps to plan for your future is crucial. By doing so, you can reduce the burden on your family and ensure a smoother transition into your golden years. Chris and Charlene’s story serves as a reminder that it is never too early to start planning for the future.

Pictured: Bro. Chris Takacs and Charlene King-Takacs

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Spring 2025

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Igniting a Lifelong Passion: Josh DeBolt and the Spirit of Freemasonry

Pictured: Bro. Josh DeBolt (left) and Bro. Matt Shelton (right)

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Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Spring 2025

B

rother Josh DeBolt of Zion Lodge #1 shares his personal journey into Freemasonry and the deep sense of community that drew him in. His interest in the Craft began at the age of sixteen when he discovered his great-grandparents' extensive collection of Masonic items while going through their belongings with his grandmother. His great-grandfather had been raised in 1961 and was an active member of the Zuhran Shriners, while his great-grandmother had dedicated seventy years to the Order of the Eastern Star. This exposure sparked Josh’s curiosity about Freemasonry and the bonds it fostered within the community.

As Josh progressed through the degrees, his mentors played a crucial role in his growth within Freemasonry. "PRACTICE!" he laughs, highlighting the importance of rehearsing the proficiencies. But beyond that, his mentors ensured he felt included in practices that were traditionally reserved for officers or more experienced members.

From opening and closing practices to degree rehearsals for Brothers following him, Josh was made to feel welcome in every aspect of lodge life. His involvement in these sessions helped him become familiar with the workings of the lodge, and further strengthened the bonds with his Brothers.

Josh’s decision to join Freemasonry was solidified through his involvement at the Detroit Masonic Temple Library and his work for the Detroit MTA. It was during his time volunteering that he encountered a great group of Brothers. Though many of them hailed from different lodges, their conversations about history, education, and life were something Josh had not experienced in his adult life. While the camaraderie was inviting, Josh still felt that something was missing; a feeling he would soon find fulfilled within the walls of his lodge.

Looking to the future, Josh sees himself taking on a stewardship role and, more importantly, contributing to the lodge’s Mentor Program. He believes that a lodge’s greatest asset is its newest members, and ensuring their retention is vital for the longevity of the lodge. Josh emphasizes the importance of asking new Brothers for their feedback, encouraging inclusivity, and creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. For him, Wednesday nights at the lodge are something he looks forward to with enthusiasm. The vibrant conversations, the strong bonds of Brotherhood, and the shared laughter make it a place where Josh, and many others, feel at home.

Reflecting on his pre-degree experience, Josh expressed his gratitude for the Brothers who made him feel comfortable and helped establish trust. For his Entered Apprentice degree, he had the privilege of having the Senior Deacon, who was his top-line signer, helping to make being in the dark just a little bit lighter. This personal connection was pivotal in making Josh feel comfortable and supported throughout his journey.

For those interested in connecting with Josh and the Brothers of Zion Lodge #1, you can visit every first Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Detroit Temple's 5th floor Greek-Ionic Room.

Zion Lodge #1 Officers

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Spring 2025

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Building Safer

Communities: The Growing Impact of the Child ID Program

M

ichigan Masons have a long-standing commitment to supporting families and keeping children safe through the Child ID Program. In 2024, the program’s reach grew significantly thanks to the unwavering dedication of our lodges and ongoing program enhancements.

In just one year, the number of Child ID kits distributed surged from 10,000 in 2023 to an impressive 23,000 in 2024. This remarkable increase means thousands more families now have access to critical tools to help protect their children in the event of an emergency.

This success is largely attributed to the dedication of lodges across the state, which hosted more than twice as many events as the previous year. These events bring communities together, offering parents and guardians free, essential resources to help safeguard their children.

resources can make a critical difference in reducing the time it takes to locate a missing child and reuniting them with their family.

The Child ID Program isn’t just about numbers; it’s about providing peace of mind and creating a meaningful difference for families. Each kit distributed represents a step towards a safer future for a child and their loved ones.

Michigan Masons are proud of the program’s growing impact and look forward to continuing to build stronger, safer communities. Together, we’re making Michigan a safer place for all families.

The importance of these resources is emphasized by statistics from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which highlight that having accurate, up-to-date information significantly improves recovery efforts when a child goes missing.

In Michigan, where approximately 1,200 children are reported missing each year, providing these Page 10

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Spring 2025

TAKE CHARGE OF

YOUR MEMBERSHIP

WITH GRAND VIEW Access - at your fingertips.

• Online Dues Payments • Mentoring Tools • Books & Resources • Personal Profile • Networking

For more information:

(800) 321-9357

Sign in or sign up today via the QR code above or visit the website below:

www.mi.grandview.systems/users/sign_in

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Spring 2025

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1200 Wright Ave Alma, MI 48801 michiganmasons.org

Annual

MAY 19th - 20th, 2025

COMMUNICATION

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort • Mt. Pleasant, Michigan

Registration information can be found in the Grand View under Events and 2025 Annual Communication. For questions, please contact the Grand Lodge office.

(800) 321-9357