Diocesan Knight to lead fourth-degree KCs

By DAWN PROSSER
Director of Communications
 
Kevin McKinney of Storm Lake has been appointed by Supreme Master Michael McCusker as Knights of Columbus master of the fourth-degree district for the state of Iowa. McKinney will begin his two-year term Sept. 1, replacing Paul Lee of Cedar Falls, who served for two years.

McKinney, a member of Storm Lake St. Mary Parish, became a first-degree knight in 1982, advanced to second and third-degree status in 1983 before advancing to the fourth-degree Knights in 1984.

“Joining the fourth-degree in 1984, I purchased all my regalia because it was very important to me to participate in honor guards,” McKinney said. He has served as commander of the fourth-degree honor guard for Council 2326 since 2006.

The master-elect has served in numerous leadership roles in his local council as well as in the district. He is currently serving as faithful comptroller for the Rosati Assembly, assistant to the master fourth degree in the diocese, state financial secretary trainer and Iowa fourth-degree district secretary.

Recently retiring from full-time work, McKinney said he planned to “keep myself busy” by continuing to serve the Knights.

“My knowledge and experience will allow me to lead the Iowa District, increase membership and spread the word of patriotism,” he said of his new position.McKinney is also involved in his parish and community. He serves on the parish finance council and volunteers as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, lector and hospitality minister.

 He is treasurer and president of the Storm Lake St. Mary School Board.

The master-elect was a reserve deputy sheriff for Buena Vista County for 21 years and served four years as courthouse security deputy. He serves on the Storm Lake City Council and was appointed as mayor pro-tem.

McKinney serves as president of the Northwest Iowa League of Cities and is a SHIIP volunteer. He and his wife, Julie, are the parents of three children and have six grandchildren.