Remembering Douglas J. Barchus

In Remembrance of our Brothers who have ascended to the Celestial Lodge in this past year:

Douglas J. Barchus

Douglas J. Barchus was born September 28, 1941. In 1961, at age 20, he joined the United States Army where he was an instructor at the Army Security Agency school at Fort Devens Massachusetts. At age 29, and while on leave from the United States Army, Doug received his Entered Apprentice degree on July 7, 1971 in Pine Lodge #339 in Pine River. Only 6 days later he received his Fellowcraft degree on July 13, 1971. Again, only 8 days after that, he was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason on July 21, 1971. This was due largely to the fact that at the time he was working on a house with his father-in-law, Mr. Hickman. Doug was with him, side by side, all day long, working and rehearsing his degree proficiency. Doug jokingly noted that they even rehearsed once when he was in the bathroom. Doug joined the Eveleth Masonic Lodge #239 in 1985, and he held dual membership with Pine Lodge #339 until 1986.

Doug was quite active for many years. He could be seen helping at pasty bakes or filling an open position in the lineup at our stated communications. Doug was awarded the Mason of the Year in 1999. He then served as our Worshipful Master three consecutive terms in 2000, 2001, and 2002. He was awarded the Hiram Award in 2002 for his efforts in our Lodge and our fraternity. Doug and his wife Linda, along with his family and friends, were instrumental in keeping our military families cool at Camp Ripley and abroad by making cool ties. They also sent Christmas packages to the troops. Eveleth Lodge is a sponsor of this endeavor, one that was so close to Doug’s heart. Doug was a 41-year member and was present last year at our Lodge’s Annual Past Masters and Widows Night where he received his 40-year pin and certificate. Doug ascended to the Celestial Lodge on May 7, 2019 at 77 years of age. He is survived by his wife Linda, son Kendal and wife Dawn, son Kent and wife Bonnie and their children Brittany and Breanna, along with Doug’s brother Raymond and sisters Lura and Ona.