Those We Remember
In Memory – Brian Brown
May 16, 2008
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Brother Brian Brown.
Brian was a long-serving Directing Business Representative of Northwest District 250 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Brian retired in January 2005 after serving the membership of Local 692 and District 250 for over 25 years. Formerly a Journeyman Mechanic from Finning, Brian was a tireless bulldog who fought for working people throughout his life. He stayed Rock Solid Union in the face of endless challenges, often sacrificing his personal time and his family life in service of bettering the work lives of those he served.
All of us who have served alongside our Brother will remember him as a determined and witty and strong leader. He had a great sense of humour and could turn a phrase like no other Union Rep before or since. Brian worked with many of the Business Representatives and Shop Stewards and Union members throughout our organization. Many of us who apprenticed under him owe a great debt of gratitude for the training we received.
Brian had faced various medical challenges over recent years, and suffered a stroke during the past week. He was hospitalized and had been under care at Surrey Memorial Hospital when he experienced another stroke and passed away at 7:00 PM on May 15, 2008.
Go in peace, brother. We thank you for the strength of your example and for the thousand wonderful memories. Stay Rock Solid, always.
On behalf of the officers, staff, representatives, and membership of Machinists District 250,
Stan Pickthall
Directing Business Representative
It is with great sadness that we advise you of the passing of Joe Kropinak on June 1, 2009.
Joe was a long serving member of Local Lodge 692 serving as both Business Representative and Directing Business Representative. He began his career at Ranier Lumber where he became a Welder. In March, 1965 Joe joined the Machinists Union as a Welder for Finning Ltd. Joe was elected to Serve as a Business Representative in May, 1973. He continued this participation until his retirement in July of 1993.
His retirement years were filled spending time with family and enjoying his favourite activities such as fishing and just being on the ocean. He especially loved the cabin at Rail Lake where he was surrounded by children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife Carol, his two son’s Rob and Dale and his beloved grandchildren Danny, Tyler, Kaila, Chloe, Michelle and Tara. Joe was a colorful character who will be lovingly remembered. The family expresses that in lieu of flowers, donations to Rick Hansen Foundation or the B.C. Cancer Society would be appreciated.
