Roderick Eckart Betham

Roderick Eckart Betham was born on April 1, 1935, in Apia, Western Samoa. He was raised and educated in Auckland, New Zealand, before relocating to the United States with his family in 1957. That same year, Mr. Betham enlisted in the United States Navy, where he honorably served and completed three tours in Vietnam. He was discharged in 1961 with the rank of Petty Officer Second Class (P.O.2).

Roderick Betham became an American citizen in 1960 in Los Angeles, California. In 1958, he married Sondra Ann Harris, who preceded him in passing in 1996. Together, they were parents to two daughters, Michelle Diane and Jeanette Irene. Roderick was a proud grandfather to three granddaughters: Ashleigh, Amanda, and Rachaell, and a cherished great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren: Amilee, Ryder, Sophia, Koda, and Donnie. His legacy endures through his loving family.

• Became a Master Mason in 1966

• Member of the American Legion and the Scottish American Military Association

• Served as Past Master Mason, Past High Priest of the Royal Arch, Past Master of the Council, Past Commander of the Commandery, and recipient of the Knight York Cross of Honor

• Served as Grand Piper for the Eminent Grand Master of Cryptic Masons for the State of California

• Also served as Piper for the Royal Order of Scotland in California and the Robert the Bruce Association

• Past Patron of Eastern Star and Past Royal Patron of Amaranth (holding several Grand Offices)

• Honorary Member of the Grand Court of Scotland and Past Watchman of Shepherds in the White Shrine of Jerusalem

• Played bagpipes for the North Coast Pipe Band and the Pipes and Drums of Ben Ali Shrine, where he was a member

Survived by his sister, Dulcie

Preceded in death by his siblings, Rita, Maureen, and Hector Wayne