William “Bill” Weigand, retired Administrative Assistant to the General Vice President, passed away just a few weeks shy of his 80th birthday. He is survived by his wife, Judy, 6 children, 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. His son, Rod, is a retired GLR from the Western Territory.
“Bill Weigand was a true journeyman who led the way for many of our current leaders,” said Western Territory GVP Gary Allen. “His legacy of advocating for workers and their families lives on through the many that he mentored.”
A 58-year member of the IAM, Bill initiated into Local Lodge 821 in Ontario, California in 1953 while working as a Flight Line Mechanic at Lockheed Aircraft Service. He related to his co-workers almost immediately and was elected Shop Steward that very first year. Because of his passion for justice - and his magnetic personality - Bill earned the support and respect of his fellow members, who elected him President of Local 821 in 1957.
District Lodge 120 (later merged into District 725) recognized Brother Weigand’s outstanding gifts and brought him on as an Organizer in 1960. He later served as Business Representative and was elected Directing Business Representative for District 120 in 1968. Because of his exceptional talents and successes, Grand Lodge welcomed Bill on staff as a Special Representative in 1979. He served as a Special Rep and then Grand Lodge Representative until 1981, when he was chosen as the Western GVP’s Administrative Assistant. Bill held that post until his retirement in 1991. Bill also served as First Vice President on the Board of Directors for Guide Dogs of America.
His keen organizing, negotiating and servicing skills improved the lives of hundreds, more likely thousands, of people over the years. His dedication to working families was beyond compare, and he did it all with his own wonderful flare.
Dates and numbers can sometimes get in the way of the real story; which is Bill Weigand was a remarkable man who lived life to its fullest. A man of integrity, Bill’s love for his family, his union brothers and sisters, his friends… his love for his fellow man… was an amazing lesson for all who were blessed to know him. And, yes, he was known to tell a story or two to any one stopping to listen. He was responsible for the smiles on many, many faces.
Rest in peace Brother Bill.
To read more about Bill’s life and to see more photos, click here.
