MW Bro Michael Henry Roalfe
(1935 – 2023)
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of MW Bro Michael Henry Roalfe, the esteemed Past Grand Master of the Masonic Order of Athelstan. Michael left this world on Monday 21st August, at the remarkable age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be engraved in the history of our beloved Order.
Michael joined the Order on 29th March 2006 as the Founding Immediate Past Master of High Cross Court No. 5 and was immediately preferred to Eminent Grand Prior. At a meeting of the Grand Council on 25th August 2007, Michael was unanimously declared as Grand Master Designate and was Installed as our second Grand Master at Leicester on 3rd November 2007. He served 6 years as Grand Master, and as Grand High Chancellor of the Appendant Order of the Scarlet Mantle; a time in which he truly laid the strong foundations on which our Order was built.
The Annual Assembly of 2007 marked our first meeting at Leicester Masonic Hall, Devonshire Place and was courtesy of Michael's position as Provincial Grand Master of the Craft; our Order has celebrated its Annual Assembly there every year since; a direct legacy of Michael's influence.
Although Michael's qualities as a Masonic leader were unparalleled, his personal attributes were equally remarkable. Described as a gentle and kind-hearted soul, he possessed an inherent ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. Countless Masons and non-Masons alike deeply admired him for his compassion, humility, and unwavering moral character.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael's family during this difficult time.
"From the darkness, let light arise, and may the Grand Master above welcome our beloved Brother Michael Henry Roalfe into eternal bliss."
MW Bro Paul W. Johnston, GCAG
Grand Master