29/08/2026
WBro. John Francis, Past Master, Roll of Honour (1932–2026). With great sadness, our Lodge extends its heartfelt condolences to John’s family as we remember his life and more than 60 years of devoted service to Freemasonry.
- Memorial Service
A memorial service for John will be held at Orlando Country, 748 Rangitikei Line, Palmerston North, on Wednesday, 2 September 2026 at 1.00 pm.
- John’s Masonic Journey
John was initiated into Freemasonry at the age of 32 by Lodge Maniapoto No. 206 in the Waikato on 15 December 1964. He later belonged to Lodge Ross No. 339 on the West Coast and The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No. 47 in Palmerston North.
In 1988, John joined Lodge Rangitāne No. 369, where he served as Master three times, in 1991, 2006 and 2007, and as Lodge Secretary from 2010 to 2014. In 2024, the Lodge proudly elected him an Honorary Member in recognition of his enduring service to both Freemasonry and Lodge Rangitāne.
John’s Masonic involvement extended further. From 2006, he was also a member of The Research Lodge of Ruapehu No. 444, serving as Master for two consecutive terms in 2012 and 2013.
His remarkable commitment was recognised with his 25 Year Badge in 1989, 50 Year Badge in 2014 and 60 Year Badge in 2024. In 2022, the Grand Master awarded John the Grand Lodge of New Zealand’s Roll of Honour for his meritorious service to Freemasons New Zealand.
John also served with distinction in several Masonic orders. As a member of the Royal Arch Manawatu Chapter No. 11 and a Grand Officer of the Supreme Grand Chapter, he served for two years as District Grand Superintendent, two years on the Management Committee and five years as a trustee of the Jubilee Memorial Scholarship Fund, and held the rank of Past Second Grand Principal. In 2024, he received the First Grand Principal’s Award for his outstanding efforts and long service in the Royal Arch.
That same year, John was conferred the degree of the Silver Trowel in the Cryptic Council - a rare honour reserved for sitting or past Thrice Illustrious Masters. He was also a member of the Ark Mariner, another side order of the Royal Arch.
- Life beyond Freemasonry
Beyond Freemasonry, John trained as a hotelier at Wairakei and the Hermitage before managing the Waitomo and Franz Josef hotels in the 1960s. After moving to Palmerston North, he served the City Council as Public Relations Officer. In 1973, he joined Yorkshire-General Life Assurance Co as a salesman and quickly became Sales Supervisor, and later manager. In 1983, he joined the Manawatu Standard as a credit controller. A chance meeting with the late WBro. Clive Davis in 1988 led to John’s appointment as Office Manager of D Clive Davis Engineering and, in the same year, he joined Lodge Rangitāne.
John passed peacefully to the Grand Lodge Above on 26 August 2026, aged 94. He was the beloved husband of the late Heather, a loving father to Rob and Ann, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. His warmth, fellowship and lifetime of service will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
