- Gary L. McGowan -

Bro. McGowan is an outstanding Mason, serving Illinois Freemasonry and his community.

He was raised as a Master Mason on August 28, 1979, in Williamson lodge No. 802, Carterville, IL. He served as their Worshipful Master in 1982 and again in 1991. He was elected Secretary in 1998 and has remain in that position since. Concurrently, he was commissioned as a Grand Lecturer in 1993 and worked as a Grand Lodge Instructor from 1996 to 1998.

In 1998 he was appointed to the Board of Grand Examiners by Garrie Burr, serving as Grand Master at the time. Gary continues to serve in that committee as Chairman. He has been doing so for the past three years. Bro. McGowan now holds the current record for the longest tenure as a Grand Examiner.

Gary also joined Marion Chapter No. 100 of the Royal Arch Masons in 1979 and served as their High Priest from 1986 to 1988.

In 1996, he became a member of Herrin Council of Cryptic Masons in Marion.

Bro. McGowan was initiated into Star of Egypt Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, in 1981. This Chapter later consolidated with Anna Chapter and is now Herrin Chapter No. 499. Gary was been elected as Worthy Patron three times and currently serves as Sentinel of chapter.

He also joined the Shrine in 1980 at Ained Temple.

Gary is also active in his community. He is carpenter by trade and has served his local union as a Trustee for many years.

He and his wife are also devoted and active members their Church. Gary is a Deacon at Crainville Baptist church. He shares his devotion by teaching the adult Sunday school class.

The most important and wisest thing Gary ever did has been said is his Marriage to his wonderful wife Melinda. They were married on September 11, 1981. They have just celebrated 28 years together.