Charles E. Maurer Jr.
Supreme Secretary of the Knights of Columbus
Charles E. Maurer Jr.
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As Supreme Secretary of the Knights of Columbus, Charles E. Maurer Jr. oversees a variety of administrative departments at the Supreme Council office. Before moving to Branford, Conn., in 2010, Maurer has had a long and distinguished career in both business and service to the Catholic Church.
A native of Richmond, Ind., Charles Maurer is the retired owner of Philip Birck, Inc. and Maurer Industrial, a five-generation retail and commercial/industrial hardware business in his hometown of Richmond. Two of his children continue to run the 110-year-old business. He is past president of the board of trustees of Gibault School in Terre Haute, Ind., which was founded by the Knights of Columbus and administered by the Brothers of Holy Cross. Gibault School offers life-changing opportunities for children, adults, families, and communities alike.
Maurer’s service to the Church and community is one that embodies a true Knight of Columbus. Maurer joined Richmond Council 580 at the age of 18. He served in many officer and chairman positions for his council and state, including district deputy, state advocate, state secretary, and state deputy from 1996 to 1998. Maurer has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2001. He was appointed supreme treasurer of the Order in September of 2010 and most recently named supreme secretary in August of 2011.
He is a past member of the Main Street Association, Downtown Merchants Association, and the Board of the Young Men’s Catholic Association (YMCA). He is a recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash Award, which is the highest service award presented by the Governor of Indiana.
Charles and his wife, Tonya, have four sons and one daughter. They also have five grandsons, five granddaughters and one great grandson.