Frans De Graaf 40 Years in Royal Arch Freemasonry

It is a great pleasure for me this evening to present a forty-year certificate and badge to Ex Comp Mattheus Franciscus de Graaf.

Frans you were born in 1943 in the Hague, Holland, one of eight children. After completing your national service with the Royal Dutch Airforce, you got on a ship bound for Australia. On the way you met your future wife Irene, got married in Australia and had you son Roger, who is with us this evening, followed by Michael and Sandra.

Returning to the UK you worked with De-Haviland as an aircraft engineer and then moved to B A where you stayed for forty years. I am informed that you were a union rep at BA where you learnt your diplomatic communication style.

You and your family came on holiday to Freshwater East some 55 years ago returning every year, finally moving permanently in 2015.

Your Masonic career started in 1984 when you were initiated into the Hale End Lodge no 4183 and became Master in 1993, during that year you initiated your son Roger, a proud moment for you I am sure, and you remain a member of that Lodge having served as Secretary and Almoner. Your Royal Arch career commenced in 1985 when you were exalted into Hale End Chapter and were First Principal in 2000. You were appointed to Senior London Grand Rank in 2007 and a visiting officer. In 2012 in Metropolitan Grand Chapter Senior Grand Rank and again a visiting officer. In Supreme Grand Chapter you were appointed PAGDC in 2019. incidentally, the same investiture meeting as myself.

Excellent Companion Frans your masonic career lists further appointments and

achievements which would keep us here all night, so I have summarised it.

somewhat. One thing for sure I am delighted and honoured to present you.

now with this certificate and badge to mark forty wonderful years of service.

to Royal Arch Masonry