Well, first and foremost, CJ, there's no such thing as a "high-ranking" Mason. The 3rd degree is the ultimate honor and all that follows is exemplary of that. That your grandfather was a Shriner indicates that he went through quite a few Masonic ceremonies (in those days one had to not only be a Master Mason, but also either a Scottish or York Rite Mason and frequently a man would do both). Now ... what kind of man was he? Well, that he was a Mason says something: he had an unswerving belief in God; he supported his nation, his state and his community; he believed in charity.
Freemasonry attracts all kinds of men for all kinds of reasons, but this is most certainly true: your Grandfather was our Brother! We believe in the power of the bond of brotherly love and affection. We are enjoined to be faithful to our religious beliefs, good citizens, fond parents (and grandparents), and we strive to be the best men we can be. Certainly, not all of our brothers succeed in this quest, but I think that for the most part Masons do succeed.