A total of 71 brethren attended a fantastic meeting at Chorley Masonic Hall, to celebrate Norman Cox’s 50 loyal years in Craft Masonry. It is clear that Norman has enjoyed a very full Masonic journey, also supporting his lodge for many years as secretary.
With so many brethren present, the atmosphere was very lively with Norman also inviting a few of his own special guests. In particular Kerr Edwards who had been Norman’s mentor throughout his Masonic life. Other special guests were Norman’s fellow masters and from that list, six answered Norman’s call, unfortunately many have passed to the grand lodge above, but present were Robert Haydock (Carnarvon Lodge No 2376), David Ball (New Hall Lodge No 5940), Mike Woods (Cuerden Lodge No 6018), Bob Wilkinson (Longton Lodge No 6237), Terry Hornby (Eccleston Lodge No 7754) and Steve Owen (Runshaw Lodge No 8537).
In attendance representing the Province of West Lancashire was Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Lockett, along with Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies Alan Smith, group chairman Peter Allen and acting Provincial grand officers David Bishop, Ian Moss, Rick Winfield and Haldane Hamer.
The lodge was opened and Peter Lockett soon took the chair to direct the celebrations. A very extensive account of Norman’s life was presented, which highlighted to the brethren Norman’s colourful past of ladies, guns, science, explosives, and hitch-hiking around the world aged just 17 in 1963!
While traveling across Europe, Norman met many interesting people, Steve Ossiander an American with military contacts. After traveling to Berlin with Steve, Norman spent time in an Eastern German cell without a valid passport. On his own again, he travelled to Hamburg where he met four girls on a cycling holiday. One of the girls was injured and Norman took her place, cycling 100 miles north to Bremenhaven. There are many more similar tales.
On returning back to the UK penniless, Norman completed his education and went on to study science at Liverpool University. After enlisting in the 5th Kings Regiment, Norman rekindled his love of guns and spent time in Ireland where he met his future wife, Sheila.
After working in London for Heinz, Norman was stationed back up north and together with Sheila. They had four children, Caroline, David, Christina and Andrew. Sadly, Sheila passed in 2009, but Norman was soon surrounded by 10 grandchildren.
An account of Norman’s Masonic achievements where shared, starting with his initiation in 1973, installed as master in 1990, Provincial honours in 2000 of Past Provincial Senior Grand Deacon, and promoted twice in 2006 and 2012 to Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden.
The meeting was ended with cheques given to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, and everyone met in the dining room to enjoy a very enjoyable festive board with lots of speeches of respect and admiration for Norman by his guests.
