John Gowen is an active mason who joined Freemasonry in 2002. He enjoys doing ritual work, studying the esoteric aspects of Freemasonry, and supporting the various bodies he has been initiated into.
In the Blue Lodge, John served as Master of his lodge three times. Additionally, he has served multiple years as an Officer’s Coach, the Treasurer, a member of the Investment Committee member, and a member of the Temple Board. Since helping to merge Unity and Amity Lodges, he has turned over the leadership of his MW John R Heisner Lodge to his brothers.
In Al Bahr Shrine, John is active in many units and clubs. He is an active parader and has served in the leadership of the Patrol and the Legion of Honor. As a ritualist, he has participated in many Past Master’s Degrees and is a member of the Ritual Cast. For the temple, he has served 2 years as its Membership Chairman and was appointed to the Divan in 2019.
In the York Rite, John has served as Excellent High Priest of the San Diego Chapter, Illustrious Master of the San Diego Council, Eminent Commander of the San Diego Commandery, Venerable Master of Inkopah Council, and is currently serving as the Governor of the San Diego York Rite College. Additionally, he is a member of the California College of the SRICF and the San Diego Priory.
In the Scottish Rite, John is the Director of the 30th Degree and has been honored by being inducted into the Knight Commander Court of Honor.
In private life, John served in the US Navy for 23 years as an Electronic Warfare Technician, retiring in 2001. While in the Navy, he married Rose, and they have a family of three sons and one daughter. After retiring, John earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science. When his class graduated during the dot.com crash, he started work as a manager in the Holiday Inn chain, where he worked for 5 years. He is now working with Polycoat Products as a Marketing and Sales Manager.