Leo Gerard, a well-known labour activist from Sudbury, Ont., died on Sunday at age 78, according to his obituary.
Gerard worked with the United Steelworkers for more than 50 years. He served as a USW staff representative, district director, national director of Canada and secretary-treasurer before his election as international president in 2001.
He retired from the USW in July 2019.
Gerard’s obituary says he’s survived by his wife of 56 years, Susan, daughters Kari-Ann and Meaghan, and grandchildren Elyssa, Liam and Kinley. The obituary states there will be no services at this time, and “the family is grieving privately together, and ask for support and understanding as they remember Leo in their own ways.”
People are invited to make a donation in Gerard’s honour to the Alzheimer’s Society.
On Facebook, Sudbury NDP MPP Jamie West wrote that “his heart broke” when he heard about Gerard’s death.
“It broke for him, for his family, for his union and for me,” he said.
“He was approachable, likable and strong-willed. He was a powerful speaker and a determined fighter. He cursed like a sailor and he dedicated his life to make life better for the working class.”
West said Gerard’s work inspired others, including himself.
“I was fortunate that Leo went from inspiring me, to mentoring me, spending more than a decade helping me become better at what I’m most passionate about — making the world better for workers and their families,” he said.
Members of USW are also recognizing Gerard’s work.
“Leo Gerard spent his entire life fighting for workers across the world, and his impact on the USW, and the global labour movement, has been immeasurable,” United Steelworkers international president David McCall said.
“He inspired countless other workers to carry on the fight for justice and fairness. He will be missed, but we intend to honour his legacy by continuing our work.”
