It is with deep sadness that District No. 10 must inform our members that Business Representative Donald Griffin passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 19, 2014.
Don has vigorously supported the labor movement over the last 40 years.
Don’s union activism originated with the Allied Industrial Workers, where he served in many capacities from 1969 through 1994.
He began his union membership in the IAMAW Local Lodge 1377, at Waukesha Engine in March 1994. During his tenure there he served as a Union Steward and Chairman of the Bargaining Committee. He was proud to be a part of negotiating the 1996, 1999 and 2003 labor agreements. The 2003 negotiations resulted in an 85-day strike to protect retiree benefits. His professionalism and leadership were valued by union and management alike in settling this strike.
Don became a Business Representative for District No. 10 on November 21, 2005. He quickly became an energetic and dynamic force on District 10’s staff, taking on leadership roles and continuing his education by attending classes in contract negotiations, administration, time study, job evaluation, labor law and health & safety. There was never an assignment Don did not take on with willingness and great energy.
Don also played a large part in the IAMAW’s legislative fundraising activities both on a state and national level. We’re sure many of our members will remember Don trying to sell that last ticket!
It goes without saying that Don’s death will leave a giant void throughout the State. His representation of members stretched from Fond du Lac to Kenosha to Madison to Waukesha. He proudly served members from Mercury Marine, General Electric, Ocean Spray and the Perlick Corporation, just to name a few.
Thank you to Don’s wife, Karen, and his family for unselfishly sharing him with us over these many years. Don will be not only missed and remembered for his devotion to the labor movement, but also as a respected and valued friend.
Russell D. Krings
Directing Business Representative
