April 8, 2024
Gary Kroeker was the business manager for IOUE 115 from 1992 to 2010.
GARY KROEKER, RESIDENT OF PORT COQUITLAM, B.C., long-time business manager for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 115 (IUOE 115) and former president of the BC Building Trades passed away on Nov. 30, 2023, at the age of 75.
Kroeker was a welder by trade and devoted over 36 years of his life to the local. He was the youngest business representative to ever be hired by Local 115 and the longest serving, from 1992-2010. He served in various capacities during his tenure, including as general vice-president of the IUOE.
When Kroeker retired, he wrote a heart felt message to the membership saying it was difficult to leave the job as he was not a quitter. Throughout his career he always strived to listen to people, to meet his commitments and to be accountable for his actions.
He sent a message of encouragement to the local union leadership: “The challenges they will face will be many and varied and, I predict, not unlike those of the past. Although I suspect they will be even more complex. The struggles and obstacles will continue to be there, but with their continued commitment, dedication and foresight they will build on the past and carry forward our objective — to build even greater respect and prosperity for all operating engineers and make life for working people better.”
Brian Cochrane, who followed in Kroeker’s shoes as the local’s business manager, said he helped build an organization that had a lot of credibility.
“He was a great leader. He loved people. He loved interacting with our membership and always tried to make decisions to help improve the lives of our members and their families,“ said Cochrane. “He was a good mentor not only for myself but for a number of staff who worked alongside him. He also developed deep relationships with all the stakeholders that our organization touches, whether it was government or other labour organizations and that has served our organization well.”
Kroeker is survived by his wife Marlene, his children, grandchildren and brothers.
by Megan Terepocki