Illustrious Sir John Van Lanen, PP

Beja Shriners Potentate, 2026

John Van Lanen Beja Shriners Potentate is a lifelong Green Bay resident whose leadership reflects decades of service to Freemasonry, the Shrine, and the local community. He is a graduate of Holy Cross Grade School (1967) and Premontre High School (now Notre Dame Academy), Class of 1971.

John proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1974 to 1980. After his military service, he continued his education at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, earning an Associate Degree in Business Administration in 1985.

He has been an active and dedicated Freemason and Shriner for many years. John served as Master of Washington Lodge No. 21 in 2015 and as Potentate of Beja Shriners in 2022. In addition, he has served on the Board of Governors for Shriners Children’s Twin Cities since 2023, supporting the mission of providing world-class pediatric specialty care.

John retired in 2024 and remains active in the community, working part-time as a school bus driver and motorcoach driver. A lifelong resident of the Green Bay area, his leadership, service, and commitment to philanthropy continue to guide his involvement in the Shrine and in service to others.