Sunday, June 20, 2010

Past Grand Master Calvin G. Bond Has Passed On

Calvin G. Bond, 85, of Oswego, passed away on Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Seneca Hill Manor.

Calvin (Cal) was born in South New Haven, son of the late John and Bertha L. (Fairley) Bond on June 8th, his mother’s birthday.

He is survived by Constance (Holmes) Bond of Oswego; three sisters, Bertha Emerson of New Haven; Ruth Schneider of Liverpool; Helen Griffin of Mexico; two sisters-in-laws, Shirley Bond of W. Virginia and Barbara Sawyer of Scriba.

Cal was predeceased by four sisters, M. Isabel LaClair, Evelyn G. Bond, Dora M. Thornell, Elizabeth L. Rein and four brothers, Edward T., John D., Theodore H. and James W. Bond.

A graduate of RBI, and I.A.S. School of Controllership and Oswego State University.

Cal was Treasurer of Oswego Package Boiler Co., Inc. until retirement in 1979.

He was involved in many organizations including Oswego Rotary, Red Cross, YMCA, United Way and Oswego Hospital financial matters. Cal was a long time member of the Church of the Resurrection and served in many capacities.

Cal’s interests and talents included landscaping and floral arranging, sharing antiques, and appreciating the beauty of the world in general. His outstanding baritone voice was enjoyed at his church, choral groups, weddings and other special occasions.

Cal had a long Masonic career with the local, district and state offices some which include the Oswego Lodge #127 and Master 1954, he originated and co-chaired the Officers Training Seminars, Trustee of Masonic Home, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York 1984-1986 and in 1988 was appointed Grand Lecturer of Grand Lodge, Grand Governor of the York Rite Sovereign College for seven years, President and Chairman of the NY Masonic Youth Foundation and President of the NY DeMolay foundation for ten years, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Honorary member in numerous lodges and Chapters receiving many honors and medal.

Cal led US Masons in raising over three million dollars towards refurbishing the Statute of Liberty and presided at the one hundredth anniversary celebration of laying of the Cornerstone of the pedestal.

Throughout his Masonic career he especially enjoyed the opportunity to teach the Masonic Ritual and character building.

He had cherished memories of family and friends throughout his lifetime.

Funeral Services will be held 10a.m. Wednesday at the Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be in New Haven Cemetery.

A Masonic Service will be held 7p.m. Tuesday at the Funeral Home.

Calling hours will be held 4-8p.m. Monday and 4-8p.m. Tuesday at the Nelson Funeral Home, 11 West Albany St. Oswego.

Donations: Church of the Resurrection, 120 West Fifth St.

I had the pleasure of knowing Past Grand Master Bond. He was a very inspirational person, a great Mason and a true gentleman. He was always quick with encouragement and brotherly advice. He will be missed, not only in our immediate area of the Onondaga & Oswego Districts, but everywhere. Please make time for a moment of silence sometime today to reflect on his memory.