R.W.M. Derek Stephen
I.P.M. Jim Gardiner
D.M. Derek Clark
S.M. Gordon Mackay
S.W. Jim Taylor
J.W. Jim Conner
Sec. James Stewart P.M.
Tres. Gordon Daniel P.M.
S.D. Bill Murray
J.D. Barrie Harper
I.G. Doug Sheal
Tyler. Jock Warrander
Almoner Kenny Davidson
Chaplain. Bill Stewart
Organist. Bill Roach
Marshal. Fred Warrander
S. Steward. Rodger Wallace
J. Jim Towers
B.B. Graeme Adie
Derek Stephen’s journey in Freemasonry began on the 8th of January 1976, when he was initiated into Lodge St. Olaf. Proposed by his father-in-law, Bill Butler P.M., Derek entered the lodge at a time when Freemasonry in the local area was deeply rooted in tradition, fellowship, and community spirit. From the outset, he demonstrated a quiet dedication to the Craft, steadily earning the respect of his brethren through his reliability, humility, and unwavering commitment to lodge life.
Over the years, Derek progressed diligently through the various offices of the lodge, embracing each responsibility with care and professionalism. His devotion and capability culminated in his election as Right Worshipful Master in 1990, a role he fulfilled with distinction and dignity. Those who served alongside him recall a man who never sought recognition for himself, but who led through example, consistency, and a genuine love for Freemasonry.
Derek was particularly respected as both an office bearer and an accomplished floorworker. His knowledge of ritual and ceremonial work was considerable, and he played an important role in maintaining the high standards of the lodge during a significant period of change and growth. By the time the oil industry began transforming the north-east of Scotland during the late 1970s and 1980s, Derek was already an experienced and knowledgeable brother within the lodge. The rapid expansion of employment opportunities brought many new families to communities such as Cruden Bay, and with them came a substantial increase in membership within Lodge St. Olaf.
During this exciting period of expansion, Derek became one of the steadying influences within the lodge. Alongside a core group of established brethren, he helped guide and support the influx of new members who joined throughout the 1980s. His experience, patience, and calm nature helped create a welcoming environment for younger brethren who were eager to become involved in the traditions and social life of the lodge. In many respects, Derek formed part of the nucleus of a new generation of Freemasons who helped shape the lodge for decades to come.
One particularly memorable episode from Derek’s time as Right Worshipful Master perfectly captured both the spirit of the lodge and the camaraderie that existed amongst its members. During his term of office, a delegation from Lodge St. Olaf travelled to Caithness, in the far north of the Scottish mainland, after the lodge had been invited to confer a Second Degree on behalf of Lodge Laxford, with whom Derek had family connections through one of its members.
The journey north became the setting for a story still fondly remembered within the lodge. Partway through the trip, the brethren realised that no one present had prepared the Second Degree Tracing Board. Faced with the unexpected predicament, Bill Butler stepped forward and volunteered to learn the work during the journey itself. Remarkably, after only a few hours of preparation, he delivered the lecture with such confidence, clarity, and composure that his performance quickly became the stuff of legend among the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf.
While the occasion highlighted Bill’s extraordinary gift for ritual work and his remarkable memory, it also reflected the atmosphere fostered during Derek’s leadership — one of confidence, teamwork, and quiet determination. The willingness of brethren to rise to challenges together, often with humour and good spirit, was characteristic of the era and spoke volumes about the respect and unity that existed within the lodge under Derek’s stewardship.
Although naturally quiet and reserved, Derek was far from distant. He found himself very much at home amongst the enthusiasm and energy of the younger members who brought fresh ideas and activities into lodge life. He was always willing to lend his support to projects and social events, embracing the strong sense of camaraderie that developed during those years. His understated humour and willingness to participate endeared him to many.
Perhaps most surprising to those who had known him earlier in life was Derek’s enthusiastic participation in the famous Ythan Raft Races of the late 1980s and early 1990s. These events became legendary among lodge members and the wider community, combining spirited competition with unforgettable social gatherings. Derek threw himself wholeheartedly into the occasion, enjoying not only the races themselves but also the laughter, friendship, and sense of togetherness that surrounded them.
The raft races were more than simply sporting events; they became important social occasions involving wives, children, relatives, and friends of the brethren. Through these gatherings, lasting friendships and strong family connections were formed, creating a unique social network that remains firmly intact to this day. Derek was very much part of that special era — an era remembered fondly for its warmth, fellowship, and shared experiences.
To many who knew him, Derek Stephen embodied the finest qualities of Freemasonry: quiet dedication, loyalty, humility, and brotherhood. His contribution to Lodge St. Olaf extended far beyond the offices he held or the ceremonies in which he took part. He helped foster the spirit of friendship and unity that defined the lodge during one of its most vibrant periods, leaving behind memories that continue to be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
Following his passing to the Grand Lodge Above, Derek’s Past Master’s apron was generously donated to the Lodge by his wife, Kath. The timing of this thoughtful gesture coincided with the conclusion of P.M. Bro. Ewan Mackay’s term in office, and it was unanimously felt by the brethren that Ewan would be a most fitting and deserving recipient of such a meaningful tribute.
There was, however, a far deeper and more personal connection between Kath and Ewan — one that many within the Lodge may not have been aware of.
P.M. Bro. Ewan Mackay has lived with cerebral palsy since birth, a condition which has affected his mobility throughout his life. During his childhood and school years, he required the assistance of a dedicated support worker in order to attend mainstream education. Remarkably, throughout both his primary and secondary schooling, Ewan had only one support worker by his side — Kath Stephen.
Over many years, Kath provided not only practical assistance, but also encouragement, patience, and unwavering support during some of the most formative years of Ewan’s life. Her dedication helped ensure that he was able to participate fully in school life and pursue the same opportunities as his peers.
It is therefore particularly poignant that, many years later, Kath would present Derek’s apron to Ewan. What may at first have appeared simply as a generous donation to the Lodge became, in truth, a deeply symbolic and heartfelt moment — one reflecting friendship, continuity, support, and the enduring bonds that Freemasonry so often helps to strengthen.