Heartfelt Thanks for Union Activist

Long time Executive Council member and MFL vice-president Lorraine Sigurdson retires.

Lorraine Sigurdson worked full time for the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) for over 20 years - and was an union activist for much longer. She was a long time member of the Manitoba Federation of Labour Executive Council and a MFL Executive Vice-President for a number of years.

A retirement event was held for Lorraine on December 8. Among the speakers were Manitoba Premier Gary Doer, National CUPE President Paul Moist, and MFL President Darlene Dziewit. Rick Panciera was the Master of Ceremonies of the event that was packed with politicians, employers, Lorraine's family, CUPE members and many activists from unions other than CUPE.

MFL President Darlene Dziewit talked about how "Lorraine has always been a voice of reason. No matter what the internal disagreements within the labour movement, Lorraine could always be counted on to keep the lines of communication open.

"Lorraine was a fierce defender of her members and CUPE. Employers, particularly in the health care field where Lorraine spent much of her career, found out how fierce she really was if they went after her members.

"I will truly miss Lorraine. I've known her for over 25 years. When I became President of the MFL, Lorraine was there to offer advice and support and I am truly grateful."

Although on the verge of retirement, Lorraine still made her voice heard at the MFL Covention in November. During the convention, she was the recipient of the Judy Cook Woman of Achievement Award in recognition of her contributions to the betterment of women in the Manitoba labour movement during her many years of service.

Lorraine and husband Murray Craddock, who retired from CUPE last year, have taken up permanent residence in Manitoba's Interlake area. Lorraine grew up in Riverton, one of the communities in the region.