A Word From the Master

2020 Worshipful Master | Derrek Hittle

First and foremost I would like to thank the Brethren of Gardner Lodge for entrusting me with this level of servant leadership by electing me to the office of Worshipful Master for the year 2020.  I am truly honored to be serving our lodge in this capacity. My Grandfather was also a proud Freemason and a Shriner but passed away when I was young. I wish he could be here to share this with me but I know he would be very proud.  I am likewise honored to be a part of a brotherhood that focuses on faith, family and helping the community. I hold pride in the efforts of our lodge, which both Edgerton and Wellsville lodges having merged with us over the past years, we continue serving the communities of Gardner, Edgerton, and Wellsville, Kansas.

A little about me before becoming a Mason:  I was born and raised in Missouri and moved to Edgerton six years ago with my wife, Amy.  We have been blessed with two amazing daughters, Kimber and Mercy. Outside the lodge, I am a Machine Operator by trade.  In my free time, I serve the church as a Deacon, enjoy camping, hunting, fishing, and woodwork.  

My goals for 2020 are to continue work on the lodge, both physically and organizationally. I plan to hold more outings and activities which include our families to deepen those bonds between us. This will include bringing back family dinners which will be held on the third Thursday of each month. We will also be planning a monthly family activity such as picnics, bowling, game nights, etc. I truly believe that if we strengthen our bonds with one another and our families outside of a stated meeting structure, we will see a strong positive impact on all. I would also like to coordinate more community efforts, both continuing those like the Child Identification program we have a long successful history with as well as finding new beneficial opportunities to impact those around us.  

All in all, I aim for Gardner Lodge to experience a very close, enjoyable, and productive 152nd year. I am truly honored and I am always here to assist in any way.

 

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Derrek Hittle

Worshipful Master, Gardner Lodge No. 65