When the time came for Worshipful Brother Carl Froedge to make his grand entrance into this world, he apparently decided to do so with a sense of adventure and a dash of humor—selecting Gary, Indiana, as his birthplace on December 21, 1958. Some say it was for the steel mills, others for the strong Midwestern spirit, but Carl himself insists it was simply to keep his family on their toes from the very beginning. After all, why settle for ordinary when you can start your story in a place as unique as Gary?
Since then, he’s kept his life as close to the people he cares about as possible. Plus, he found that being born in Gary, Indiana is a great conversation starter—especially when you explain that proximity to your mother was the deciding factor.
He was raised in Crown Point, Indiana, where he graduated from Crown Point High School. Most of his professional life was dedicated to USS Gary Works, where he distinguished himself through years of hard work and commitment. Over time, he rose to become the only Supervisor responsible for both the Mason Department and the Carpenter/Paint Shop, a testament to his versatility and leadership abilities. After a long and successful career, he retired in 2017 at the age of 58 and a half. In recognition of his dedication and service, he was honored with a golden trowel upon his retirement.
Worshipful Brother Carl Froedge has dedicated his life to the principles and service of Freemasonry, earning recognition and respect across numerous Masonic bodies. His commitment is evident through decades of active involvement, leadership, and honors that mark his distinguished journey.
Worshipful Brother Froedge was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on October 23, 1997, in M. L. McClelland Lodge No. 357. His dedication to the craft quickly became apparent, leading him to serve as Worshipful Master of the lodge in both 2003 and 2020. He continues to serve as the Secretary of M. L. McClelland Lodge #357, demonstrating ongoing commitment to its success and growth.
Expanding his Masonic journey, Worshipful Brother Froedge became an esteemed member of the Elbert H. Gary York Rite Bodies. His leadership was recognized through his service as Past High Priest of Elbert H. Gary Chapter #139, Past Illustrious Master of Elbert H. Gary Council #103, and Past Eminent Commander of Elbert H. Gary Commandery #57. Additionally, he served as High Priest of Lincoln Chapter #53 in Crown Point, Indiana, further contributing to the York Rite.
Worshipful Brother Froedge’s Masonic affiliations are vast and varied. He has held many significant positions, including:
Past Preceptor and current Registrar of Gennesaret Tabernacle #XVII Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests
Past Governor of Northwest Indiana York Rite College #73
Past Sovereign Master of both Robert E. Seppy #413 Allied Masonic Degrees Council and David R. Ford Council #338 AMD
Past Sovereign of St. Basil Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine
Past Director General of the Yeoman of York Preceptory #1
Past Prior of J. Herbert Nichols Priory #76 KYCH
Past Excellent Chief of F’irinne Council #115 Knight Masons
Member of Regius Court #110 Masonic Order of Athelstan
Member of Zanzibar Grotto and Darius Grotto MOVPER
Member of the Royal Order of Scotland
Member of Indiana College SRICF
Member of Masonic Order of St. Patrick Lorica Council T.I.
Member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon
Member of Goose ‘N Tater 101
Member of the Knights of Golgotha
Currently serving as President of the Grand Council of Anointed High Priests of the State of Indiana
32nd degree member of the Valley of South Bend Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite
Registrar of Gennesaret Tabernacle No. XVII HRAKTP
Treasurer of F’irinne Council #115 Knight Mason
- Throughout his Masonic career, Worshipful Brother Froedge has been the recipient of numerous prestigious honors, including:
The Order of the Purple Cross from the York Rite Sovereign College of North America
The Ephraim Kirby Award from The General Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons
The David Widmoyer Award from the Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons of Indiana
The Order of Service to Masonry by the Grand Lodge of Indiana
These recognitions reflect his unwavering dedication and impact within the fraternity.
Worshipful Brother Carl Froedge served as Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Indiana during the 2016/17 term, a testament to his leadership and service at the highest levels of Masonic governance.
Worshipful Brother Froedge continues to serve the fraternity in various capacities, ensuring the ongoing vitality and integrity of Masonic traditions. His current roles include Secretary of M. L. McClelland Lodge #357, Registrar of Gennesaret Tabernacle No. XVII HRAKTP, and Treasurer of F’irinne Council #115 Knight Masons.
The Masonic legacy of Worshipful Brother Carl Froedge is marked by leadership, service, and a profound commitment to the principles of Freemasonry. His enduring dedication continues to inspire fellow Masons and strengthen the fraternity for generations to come.
