Nipissing Muskoka District
R.W. Bro. Jack Chuba
When R.W. Bro. Jack Chuba became a Freemason in 2012, he had no intention of pursuing office or recognition. He was still managing a demanding career in construction, travelling extensively and contending with the responsibilities of a busy working life. He expected to remain, in his own words, a “backbencher”—present, supportive and content to contribute quietly.
Masonry had other plans for him.
R.W. Bro. Chuba was introduced to the Craft by Jim Shaw, a fellow member of his local Lions Club. He already knew several members of the Lodge, and joining seemed a natural progression from friendships formed through community service. Once inside the Lodge, however, fellowship drew him into participation, participation led to responsibility, and responsibility awakened a deeper commitment to the Craft.
He went on to serve in every office of the Lodge and, in time, was called to the East. He served as Worshipful Master of Corona Lodge No. 454 during the 2024–2025 Masonic year, followed by a second consecutive year as Worshipful Master of his affiliated Algonquin Lodge No. 434 in 2025–2026. His progression reflected a practical philosophy that had guided him throughout his life: when something needs to be done, someone must be willing to step forward.
His Masonic journey also extended into the Scottish Rite. Through the Valley of Hamilton, he completed the degrees of the Lodge of Perfection, Rose Croix and Consistory, receiving the 32nd Degree. He later affiliated with the Valley of North Bay through its Lodge of Perfection and Rose Croix bodies.
As a Shriner, R.W. Bro. Chuba found an especially personal expression of the charitable principles at the heart of Freemasonry. He became actively involved in helping children reach the specialized care available through Shriners Hospitals for Children — Canada in Montréal. That direct involvement deepened his commitment to the hospital and the families it serves, leading him to make its work the charitable focus of his year in district leadership.
In July 2026, R.W. Bro. Chuba began his term as District Deputy Grand Master of Nipissing Muskoka District. It marked a significant chapter in a Masonic journey that had begun without expectation of rank. The man who once intended to remain quietly in the background had come to understand that the strength and continuity of the Craft depend upon members who are prepared to answer when called.
As the first Freemason in his family, R.W. Bro. Chuba established a legacy of his own: one shaped by fellowship, strengthened through participation and ultimately defined by service. His journey from self-described backbencher to District Deputy Grand Master stands as a reminder that leadership does not always begin with ambition. Sometimes, it begins with the simple willingness to step up.
Advisory Group
- R.W. Bro. Raymond Meadows
- R.W. Bro. Terry Hornibrook
- V.W. Bro. George Carpenter
- R.W. Bro. Michael Millard
- R.W. Bro. Michael Grima
- R.W. Bro. Terry Taylor