‘He’s an icon’: Windsor union leaders pay tribute to Buzz Hargrove

The labour community is mourning the loss of former CAW president Buzz Hargrove. CTV Windsor’s Michelle Maluske explains.

The former national President of the Canadian Auto Workers has died at 81 years of age.

“He’s an icon,” Unifor Local 200 President John D’Agnolo said Monday. “There’s no doubt in my mind he set the benchmark.”

D’Agnolo sees Hargrove’s legacy as his work when Canadian union leaders separated from the United Auto Workers Union in the late 1980’s.

“Think about all the decisions that had to be made? He played an integral role to make sure that the auto industry was taken care of,” D’Agnolo said.

In the late 80’s, Hargrove was one of two assistants to Robert White, who spearheaded the creation of the Canadian Auto Workers union.

The National Film Board of Canada produced a film about the reasons and the fight for a Canadian union in the documentary, “Final Offer.”

“Buzz made pensions a priority,” Ken Lewenza Sr. told Am800’s Mornings with Mike and Meg on Monday.

“He did it for two reasons. If we can improve pensions for workers and allow them a decent quality of life, it will open up opportunities for new members.”

Lewenza Sr. said he last saw Hargrove on Saturday but would not elaborate.

“We did have an opportunity to, in a very light way, in a very painful way, share some stories,” Lewenza Sr. added.

He became National President of the CAW when Hargrove retired in 2008.

“There is no replacing Buzz Hargrove,” Lewenza Sr. said at the time.

Influence beyond auto

Union leaders – outside of the automotive sector – are too celebrating Hargrove.

“I remember he really was loud and clear about the connection between private and public union jobs,” Brian Hogan told CTV News Monday.

“We need a good (private) economy to be able to take care of the public services and public workers that take care of Ontario.”

He is the former President of the Windsor and District Labour Council, and a former union leader with Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association.

Hogan recalls driving to Toronto to rally against then Premier Mike Harris’ cuts to education.

“We got off the bus and there he was. He met the teachers. He knew the connection. And so, to see a leader like him, to take the time to be out there for us again, as I said, it was about the workers,” Hogan reflects.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens issued a statement today regarding Hargrove’s passing.

Big 3 condolences

CTV News reached out to officials with the ‘Big 3’ automakers for reaction to Hargrove’s death.

Stellantis

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Buzz Hargrove, who was a tireless advocate for the community, the country and the labour movement in Canada. His life’s work was dedicated to fighting for justice, equality and dignity for all workers. He leaves behind an incredible legacy that has inspired countless individuals today and for generations to come. Stellantis extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Hargrove.”

Ford Motor Company

“All of us at Ford of Canada are deeply saddened by the passing of Buzz Hargrove. Buzz was a formidable leader and a steadfast champion for workers’ rights. His contributions to the automotive industry were many, and his unwavering commitment to workers has left an indelible mark.

Buzz’s leadership during his tenure at the Canadian Auto Workers union was instrumental in shaping the landscape of labour relations in Canada. His negotiation and collaboration skills were a testament to his dedication to his position, and his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Buzz’s family, friends, and colleagues.”

General Motors

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Buzz Hargrove and honour his legacy of supporting Canadian auto workers. Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”