Ill. Buel H. Droste was born March 27, 1927 to Henry F. Droste and Matilda (Schroeder) Droste in Evansville, IN. He attended Holland elementary school, Tennyson High School and took night classes at the University of Evansville.
Buel served in the United States Army 37Th Infantry – PFC from basic training to Cadre at officers training to Personnel Clerk. He worked general maintenance at Wright packing, cabinet-maker at a lumber company, production assembler at International Harvester, plant security at Alcoa – technical Supervisor at Alcoa (retired).
Buel married Thelma Campbell February 8, 1948 they had two sons David B. and Dennis P. Droste. They are members of St. Johns United Church of Christ.
Buel was raised a Master Mason at Strangers Rest Lodge # 240 September 8, 1959 went through the ranks to Worshipful Master in 1965, Trustee from 1966-1968 then Auditor of books. He joined the Scottish Rite Valley of Evansville April 1964, He was presented the Meritorious Service Award in 1987, and was crowned a Sovereign Grand Inspector General 33° in Cincinnati OH in 1998.
Buel has honorary memberships in 5 lodges, was given the Grand Cross of Colors, and is a member of the Hadi Temple Shrine, Past Masters Club, and the American Legion.