Ronald "Ron" Schmidt

Mrs. Schmidt: I regret that I had made commitments away from the Lower Mainland before I heard of Ron's passing and the date of the remembrance and so was not able to attend. I met Ron soon after starting work with Baigent & Jackson in 1980. We were soon involved in the CAIMAW raid at Cominco, a pivotal campaign for the support of about 4000 Cominco employees. Ron and the Local 480 Executive worked for months, tired as they were, leafletting at every shift change and still working days and evenings to get the message out and the Local operating. I have always been recognized my good fortune as an advisor to Union movement, but I recognized that is different from being part of it. Ron was not just part of it, he was a dedicated leader. I also learned that if I were to make some anti-Steelworker comment that offended Ron and he gave to the count of three to take it back, I should probably do it before he started counting. What a guy. We need such people. I know his many friends will miss him. I am happy for the privilege of being able to work with him. David Blair

Our deepest sympathies. Out thoughts are with all of you. Rest in peace Ron. Jim, Pat, Joan and John Twidale

I am so sorry to hear that Ron has passed away. I have so many fond memories of working with him during my time at Local 480 - the inter-union raids, the late night bargaining sessions that almost always included a poker game, the strikes of the 80's and 90's, Ron bailing me out of trouble when things got over heated on the picket line, and so many more times that bring a smile to my face. People come and go in your life but Schmitty was someone you will never forget. To you Marcella and your family, please accept my sincere condolences. Tom Wynn

To Marcella and family - it was a shock when we heard of Ron's passing today...so many good memories of a truly remarkable man. Brimming with character, Ron's sometimes ornery countenance disguised the fact that he was one of the biggest softies around. Charming and mischievous, Ron liked nothing better than to slyly pull a joke on someone. That great poker face served him equally well at the bargaining table, in arbitration, on a picket line, or telling a whopper to friends in the beer parlour. But if you were in a scrape, there was nobody better to have as your advocate. Many company lawyers learned that the hard way. Ron was a loyal friend and mentor to many, and he left a lasting impression wherever he went. Even our two-year-old boy at the time would often ask the whereabouts of "Mr. Smiff". Let your grief be tempered by the knowledge that Ron was one of the real difference makers in this world - and many know they are richer for it.

Marcella , with heartfelt regrets we offer our condolences to you and your family . Ron was a real character when we went to school. Too many stories , 100 % funny. He will be missed but always remembered. Rick and Arleen Fillmore. PS He still owes me an eight hour shift at the lead furnaces as we traded but he phoned in sick when it was time for him to work back for me. We always laughed about that whenever we crossed paths.

Marcella, Rhonda, Lonney and Families, So sorry to hear of Rons passing. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time. Jack, Bernice, Janice and Bryan