Mayor Scott Gillingham issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Gord Delbridge, President of CUPE 500:
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gord Delbridge.
Gord was a tireless advocate for working people and a cornerstone of Manitoba’s labour movement. Throughout his years leading CUPE Local 500, he fought hard for his members, and I greatly admired the passion and dedication he brought to that work.
Our relationship began years ago when I first joined City Council. As fellow St. James guys, we also shared a connection to our neighbourhood that went beyond City Hall. Whether we were sitting across from one another in meetings or bumping into each other in the community, there was always a foundation of mutual respect.
Even when we disagreed, Gord and I could pick up the phone and have an honest, respectful conversation. We understood that we had different roles to play, but we shared a desire to make Winnipeg a better place. Over the past four years, that working relationship allowed us to collaborate on initiatives such as the Neighbourhood Action Teams, expanding City services while creating new opportunities for CUPE members.
Gord was someone I genuinely liked and deeply respected. His passing is a tremendous loss for CUPE, Manitoba’s labour movement and our entire city. I will miss him.
On behalf of the City of Winnipeg, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Gord’s family, friends and his entire CUPE family during this difficult time.