By R∴W∴ Don Goss — District Deputy Grand Master, District 6 2025
There are moments in Masonry that rise above titles, schedules, and formal obligations—moments when the Craft pauses to honor a life whose quiet consistency has shaped generations. Such an evening occurred during my second scheduled Official Visit to Curfew Lodge No. 73, where the Brethren gathered not merely for business, but to celebrate the 97th birthday of Worshipful Brother Robert “Bob” Dietz.
I had been informed beforehand that Worshipful Bob had been a Mason for more than seventy‑four years. Even with the many duties that accompany an Official Visit, it was immediately clear that the true purpose of the night was to honor a Brother whose Masonic journey is as remarkable as it is inspiring. His longevity in life is extraordinary; his longevity in service to the Craft is almost unheard of.
A Lifetime in Masonry
Worshipful Brother Dietz began his Masonic journey on January 10th, 1952, when he was raised a Master Mason at Tinley Park Lodge No. 810 in Illinois. His early years in the Craft were marked by steady involvement and a sincere dedication to the principles of Freemasonry. Later, he affiliated with Hurley Lodge No. 237, continuing his service with the same quiet commitment that would define his Masonic character for decades to come.
On April 4th, 2000, after he moved to Carrabelle, Florida, he became a dual member of Curfew Lodge No. 73 in Carrabelle, Florida—a Lodge that would eventually become his Masonic home. His leadership soon followed. Worshipful Bob served as Worshipful Master in 2002, 2003, 2009, and again in 2014. His love for history and tradition led him to serve as Lodge Historian from 2017 through 2020, preserving the stories and legacy of Curfew Lodge for future generations.
His dedication extended beyond a single Lodge. He also became a Plural Member of Crawford Lodge No. 294, strengthening the bonds of Brotherhood across the District.
Worshipful Bob’s commitment to Masonic education was equally impressive. He completed his Master Mason I, II, and III in 2008, followed by the Lodge Officer’s Course in 2011. He earned the Silver, White, Green, and Blue Proficiency Cards in 2009 and renewed them in 2014—an achievement that speaks to both his discipline and his desire to continually improve himself in Masonry.
A Night of Celebration
Curfew Lodge No. 73 is a small Lodge, but on this night it was filled to capacity. Brothers from across the District, including visitors from Crawford Lodge, came to honor a man whose Masonic life spans nearly three‑quarters of a century. The atmosphere was warm, joyful, and reverent.
Before Lodge opened, the Brethren shared a birthday dinner in Worshipful Bob’s honor. A cake was presented, candles glowing, and with a smile that reflected both humility and gratitude, he blew them out to the applause of all present. It was a simple moment, yet profoundly meaningful—an image of a life well lived and a Brother well loved.
The Lodge then opened in Due Form, and the business of the evening was conducted efficiently so that the focus could remain on the celebration. Worshipful Master Lorne Whaley read Worshipful Bob’s Masonic record aloud, recounting his decades of service and leadership. The Brethren listened with admiration, recognizing the rarity of such a legacy.
Worshipful Whaley then presented me the gavel, granting me the honor of addressing the Lodge. I rose and delivered the following tribute:
“Brethren, today I have the honor of my Official Visit to this Lodge which pales in comparison on honoring a remarkable milestone in the life of our esteemed Worshipful Brother Robert Dietz of Curfew Lodge No. 73. On the occasion of his 97th birthday, we also celebrate an extraordinary 74+ years of devoted Masonic service.
For more than seven decades, this Brother has exemplified the virtues upon which our Craft stands—fidelity, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. His long and faithful journey in Masonry has strengthened this Lodge, inspired generations of craftsmen, and enriched the heritage of Curfew Lodge No. 73.
May the Great Architect of the Universe continue to bless him with health, peace, and the knowledge that his life and labor have left an enduring imprint upon this Lodge and upon all who have had the privilege to call him Brother.”
After the tribute, the Lodge was placed at ease so that Brothers could assist Worshipful Bob downstairs and out to his car, where his daughter waited to take him home. Even in this simple act of care, the spirit of Masonry was evident—Brothers supporting a Brother, just as he has supported the Craft for so many years.
A Legacy That Inspires
To live ninety‑seven years is a blessing. To devote more than seventy‑four of those years to the service of Freemasonry is a legacy. Worshipful Brother Robert “Bob” Dietz stands as a living example of the values we profess: steadfastness, humility, and a life shaped by the principles of the Craft.
His story reminds us that Masonry is not measured in titles or accolades, but in the quiet, consistent labor of good men who strive to leave the world a little better than they found it. Worshipful Bob has done exactly that.
May his life continue to inspire us to walk uprightly, serve faithfully, and cherish the Brotherhood we share.