Nancy Riche passed away on October 1, 2011, at the Health Sciences Complex in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, at age 66 years. A labour organizer and social activist, Nancy was a tireless fighter for working people the world over and for the rights of women. Nancy Riche rose through the ranks of the Newfoundland and Labrador and Canadian labour movements, becoming one of the country’s most prominent labour leaders.

Nancy, whose professional life began as a vocational instructor, went on to become Director of Education, Research and Communication of Newfoundland Association of Public Employees, Secretary-Treasurer of the National Union of Public and General Employees, Executive Vice-President and later Secretary Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress, Vice President of the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions in Brussels, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party, Vice President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour.

Riche’s earliest union involvement convinced her of the need for labour to push its agenda in the political arena. As such, she has been a long-time supporter of the New Democratic Party, and served as the federal NDP’s Associate President (Labour).

She retired from the CLC in 2002 and joyfully moved home to her beloved Newfoundland and Labrador. Since 2002, she was mainly involved in various volunteer activities – always the activist. She served as President of the Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party from 2003-2008. She was a valued NDP mentor and advisor and most recently served as President of the NDP St. John’s East District Riding Association.

Among the honours Nancy received were the Order of Canada, a Dr. of Letters Honoris Causa from Memorial University, the AFL-CIO Meary-Lane Human Rights Award and the Elijah Barayi Award from Congress of South African Trade Unions for her contribution to the struggle against apartheid. She was proud to be a Wren.

Funeral service at the Salvation Army Temple, Torbay Road, Wednesday, October 5, at 2:00 p.m. with interment to follow in the Salvation Army Cemetery, Blackmarsh Road. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nancy’s memory to the New Democratic Party of Newfoundland and Labrador or Iris Kirby House. You can send a message of condolence by visiting this web page – www.carnells.com/funeral-notice.aspx?id=2339 .