Six new Brethren joined the Valley of Omaha at the Fall 2022 Reunion on November 17, 18, and 19th. Thirteen Scottish Rite Degrees were exemplified, and as always, the work was done very well. John Maxell, 33° commended the Wardrobe Crew, Sound and Lights crew, Culinary Masters, and Knights of St. Andrew for a Reunion that ran smoothly. “Our Valley is fortunate to have so many Brethren step up for two evenings and a long Saturday, donating their labor and their time to put on a Reunion that is one of the best in the Southern Jurisdiction,” John said.

The Supreme Council recently changed the By-Laws, removing restrictions on naming Reunions after Brethren still alive. The Valley leapt at the opportunity to recognize Ralph V. Joos, Jr., 33° for an astonishing 60 year commitment to Freemasonry. Ralph was no stranger to Freemasonry, being active in the Order of DeMolay as a boy. He was raised a Master Mason at age 21, joining Bee Hive Lodge #184, the Scottish Rite, and Tangier Shrine in 1962.

Ralph met his beloved wife Judy when he was Master Councilor of DeMolay in 1958, and Judy was the Chapter Sweetheart and a member of the Rainbow Girls. They were married in 1963 and had two daughters, Lori and Julie. Once the girls were grown, Ralph began getting truly involved in the Scottish Rite and Shrine. He was a charter member of Tangier’s Racer Unit since 1963, and served as Potentate of Tangier in 2008. He continues to be active at Tangier as Treasurer.

Ralph served as Venerable Master of Kadosh for the Omaha Consistory in 2011. He was invested as Knight Commander of the Court of Honour in 2007, and was Coroneted a 33° Inspector General Honorary in 2015. Ralph continues to be active in the Scottish Rite as a member of the Culinary Masters and will undertake projects around the building whenever he is needed.

Julie surprised Ralph, flying in from Salt Lake City, and with her sister Lori, presented Ralph his 60-year pin at the Banquet.

Ralph and Judy enjoyed 52 years together, camping and travelling. Since Judy passed in August, 2015, the Scottish Rite and Tangier Shrine has continued to be a haven and source of support for Ralph.

When asked his secret to being a 60-year Freemason, Ralph said “It’s easy. Join young and stay active until you’re old.” Nebraska Freemasons have been very fortunate to call Ralph ‘Brother,’ and the Scottish Rite and Tangier Shrine are proud to honor Ralph’s commitment to the fraternity for 60 years!