Building Brotherhood, One Life at a Time
Douglas W. Gettleson was a Past Master of Jefferson Lodge No. 553 in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. He had the honor of serving as Master of his Lodge three times, in 1988, 1997, and 2009. At his 1997 Installation, he was privileged to be installed by Most Worshipful Grand Master Robert W. Stevens of the Grand Lodge of Michigan, who was also my uncle.
Doug also served as President of the Temple Board for many years, providing dedicated leadership and support to his Masonic community.
He was a member of the Scottish Rite and the Detroit Moslem Shriners. For many years, he oversaw parking operations for the Detroit Shrine Circus at the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum. Doug generously supported Shriners Children’s Hospitals whenever he had the opportunity.
He played an instrumental role in establishing Grand River Lodge No. 151 in Waterloo, Ontario, as a sister lodge to Jefferson Lodge.
Shortly before his passing, Doug had purchased several of the 200th Anniversary Commemorative Masonic coins and was excited to present them to his brethren. He was able to personally give a few to his brothers before his unexpected death. Afterward, I had the honor of distributing the remaining coins on his behalf.
Doug was deeply devoted to Freemasonry and to his lodge. He would do anything for his lodge and his brothers. He was a Mason in both the Craft and the trades, working as a bricklayer throughout his career. He exemplified the values of a true Mason through his integrity, service, and compassion.
Doug was a remarkable husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. He loved bringing joy to everyone he met and was often the life of the party, always ready with a joke or a story to make others smile. Kind, loving, generous, and humble, he possessed a heart of gold and touched countless lives through his warmth and friendship.
He is dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Love you forever and a day, my amazing hubby.
Submitted by: Amy Jo, his loving wife