Presentation of 70-year apron to resident Herb Steel during St. John’s Day
Herb is a longstanding member of the Masonic Fraternity. His father was a Mason, and his home lodge was Amityville Lodge No. 977. On June 25 during St. John’s Day, Grand Master Kessler presented Herb with his 70-year apron.
Herb was drafted into the Army in 1950 and served two years as a military police officer in Germany. Upon his return to the states, Herb went to his cousin’s house for a get-together and that is where he first met his wife Helen. People were dancing and having fun, and though Herb did not like to dance, Helen got him up on his feet and dancing! They were married in Jamaica, Long Island and have been married for over 65 years.
Herb was employed with Grumman, and he loved his work there until he retired after 33 years of service. Helen worked for 17 years in the Amityville School District. Herb and Helen loved to travel and visited many places including France, Germany, and Sweden. Herb had a gift for creating models, sculptures, and jewelry, which helped him get this job with Grumman. Herb made numerous pieces of jewelry for Helen, and generously donated other jewelry items.
When Helen began to have mobility issues and they were having challenges with home care services, Herb’s connection with the Fraternity brought him to the Masonic Care Community for help. He knew that he needed to find additional care for Helen.
During the presentation, Herb shared what Amityville Lodge, Masonry and the Masonic Care Community meant to him, and to Helen, “I’ve enjoyed all my life with the Masons, and thank God they are here. We’ve been here one year now and I’m so happy for the people who take care of us.”