Long-time CUPE Local 500 President Ed Blackman passed away on Tuesday, July 12, in St. Boniface General Hospital. Brother Blackman led the Winnipeg civic service union for 17 years before retiring in 1993.

MFL President Kevin Rebeck, a former CUPE Manitoba President, said, “Ed was a role model for an entire generation of union leaders and activists and he provided leadership of the highest order through many challenges. He will be sorely missed by trade unionists across the country.

“I extend sympathy and condolences to his family members and friends on behalf of the working men and women who are members of the many unions affiliated to the Manitoba Federation of Labour.”

Please follow this link to the Winnipeg Free Press to read more reaction to Blackman’s passing.