Gord Delbridge was president of CUPE Local 500. (CUPE / FACEBOOK)
The leader of a prominent Winnipeg labour union has died.
Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 500 says president Gord Delbridge passed away suddenly Monday night, surrounded by loved ones.
Delbridge was elected president of CUPE Local 500 in 2015, representing members at the City of Winnipeg and organizations including the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and the Winnipeg Humane Society.
Before becoming president, he served as local vice-president during his career with the city in public arenas. He also served on CUPE’s national executive board as regional vice-president and with CUPE Manitoba as vice-president and acting president.
“I’m not sure people know just how important Gord Delbridge has been to the City of Winnipeg and its workers,” said Gina McKay, president of CUPE Manitoba, adding his strength as an advocate and his resolve in the face of challenges defined his career.
In a separate statement, Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham added: “Gord was a tireless advocate for working people and a cornerstone of Manitoba’s labour movement.”
CUPE says it will work with the Delbridge family to honour his legacy, with more information to be shared in the coming days.
