Posing for a photo after the presentation of a 50-year pin to Jack Elam, are, from left Dr. Dean Elam, nephew to Jack Elam; Robert Dumford, worshipful master, Jack Elam, Dr. Neal Elam, nephew to Jack Elam and Rich Miotto, junior deacon.

MILFORD — A special ceremony was held Saturday, April 1, at the Masonic Lodge, Kosciusko Lodge 418, in Milford. Jack Elam, Winona Lake, formerly of Syracuse, officially received his 50-year pin and a certificate. The event included a little roasting of the honoree as well.

Worshipful Master Robert Dumford presided during the ceremony with Lodge Secretary Eric Coburn reading a brief history of the numerous offices Elam has held, mostly since the combining of the Syracuse and Milford lodges.

Janet Elam, wife of Jack Elam was given the honor of presenting her husband with his 50-year pin in recognition of his years in the Masonic lodge. Shown is Janet, right, placing the pin on the lapel of her husband’s suit.

During the special lodge meeting two nephews, Dr. Dean Elam, Springfield, Ohio, and Dr. Neal Elam, Grove City, Ohio, a 33rd degree Mason, were present to share a little about their uncle to lodge members and guests present.

Dean Elam shared a few stories and a photograph taken at a family reunion, before he and his brother presented Jack Elam with a few gifts. While one gift was a few sticks of wood and a knife to do some whittling, the other was a clock made from a walnut tree on the Elam farm in Ohio.

An opportunity for lodge members and guests to share stories about the honoree was provided, with several taking the opportunity. With a few good hearted words, appreciation for what Jack Elam had done for them were noted.

One guest noted Masons try to be friendly, so they always shake hands when they go someplace. He noted that was done at the lodge that day and “everyone but one said I had their sympathy when I said I knew Jack.”

Dumford followed up the comment by noting, those words are heard a lot. “Jack takes a lot of ribbing, most of it justified.” He added, “We really appreciate Jack. We appreciate the job you have done for this lodge and for free masonry in 50 years. Jack we wish you many, many more years. Thank you so much.”

Following the ceremony and time of sharing, the guests were treated to refreshments in the reception area.

Jack Elam, who has achieved 50 years as a Mason, holds a clock made from walnut. The wood was from a tree on the family farm in Ohio.