Marion Elks Lodge No. 32 held a special ceremony to honor O.E. Hamilton on the occasion of his 100th birthday coming up in August, and for achieving the status of 71 years of membership in the fraternal organization. His milestone was celebrated by a group of relatives, Elks members and invited guests at the Marion Elks Lodge the evening of July 26th, 2003.According to Elks records, Mr. Hamilton is one of an elite few to pass 70 years of membership, and is undoubtedly one of the oldest Elks in the United States today. He was initiated as a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (B.PO.E.) on May 5, 1932. Excerpts from the minutes of this meeting were read by Brad Smith, current Exalted Ruler of the local Elks Lodge. O.E. Hamilton was elected into life membership on April 1, 1972.Mr. Hamilton was presented with a 71 year pin by Vance Dutton, Secretary of Marion Lodge 32. After this, O.E. Hamilton was presented by Mr. Smith with a Special Citation plaque, signed by Amos A. McCallum, the newly elected Grand Exalted Ruler of the B.P.O.E. The citation noted his “dedicated and meritorious service to his Lodge, community and the programs of Elkdom. By living the cardinal virtues of charity, justice and brotherly love with fidelity, he has clearly demonstrated to everyone that Elks care – Elks share.”Mr. Hamilton was accompanied by Grace Symansic, and his two daughters, Mrs. Judy Kilbury of Huron, Ohio, and Mrs. Jane Ford of Worthington, Ohio. Younger brother of the honoree, Mr. Merle Hamilton, also attended. He joined the Elks on the same date as his older brother.Dinner, photographs and conversation followed the special presentation. On behalf of the Marion Elks, Lodge 32, Exalted Ruler Smith noted that “Lodge 32 was deeply honored to recognize our oldest member, soon to be one hundred years young. May his second century be as gratifying as his first.”
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