Brethren, family and friends came together to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of WBro Howard Berry, PAGDC, marking 50 years in Freemasonry. The Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Dr Simon Archer, attended alongside an Area Delegation to share in this special occasion.
The Lodge was called off to welcome Howard’s family and friends, before WBro Gerry Russell delivered a warm and entertaining tribute, drawing on memories supplied by Howard’s wife, Wendy. It painted a picture of a modest, principled and loyal man, whose quiet manner belies a lifetime of achievement.
Born at Unsworth Post Office, Howard remains firmly convinced that Unsworth is the centre of the universe. His association with the village has been particularly strong through cricket, a lifelong passion. From appearing in the local newspaper as an eight-year-old scorer, he went on to captain both the first and second teams at Unsworth Cricket Club and serve as Chairman during a period of significant development and rebuilding. Although his ambition to play for England remains unfulfilled, his contribution to his home club has been considerable.
Educated at Bury Grammar School, Howard later studied in Manchester, where his achievements earned him the Australia Cup, awarded to the highest-achieving student in the country. A long and successful career in retail and as a sub-postmaster followed. His courage was recognised with a Police Bravery Award after he intervened during an armed robbery to protect his staff.
It was also through his work that Howard met Wendy, when she called into his shop to buy sausages. What began with an invitation to accompany him to a function became a marriage spanning 54 years. Retirement has since brought opportunities to travel together, including a world cruise, while golf has provided Howard with fresh friendships and another chance to enjoy team sport.
Throughout the tribute, Howard’s modesty and good humour shone through, alongside the affection in which he is held by those who know him. The celebrations continued at the Social Board, where WBro Jeremy Aston delivered a humorous toast to Howard’s health, bringing further laughter to a memorable evening.
The Western Area extends its warmest congratulations to Howard on his Golden Jubilee and wishes him and Wendy many more happy years together, with continued friendship and enjoyment in Freemasonry.
