CUPE 500 mourns the loss of Brother Eugene Kostyra
May 05, 2020 at 9:01 AM
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Local 500 Honourary Life Member Brother Eugene Kostyra.
He was employed by Winnipeg Hydro from 1966 to 1973 in an administrative capacity and then progressed to the position of Journeyman Electrician. He was hired as a CUPE National Staff Representative in 1973.
In 1981, he was elected to the Manitoba legislature as the NDP MLA for Seven Oaks. He served in senior roles in the cabinet of Premier Howard Pawley during his entire time in office between 1981 and 1988.
In 1988, he returned to work with CUPE and was appointed Regional Director for the Manitoba Division in 1990. In the mid-1990’s he served as an Executive Assistant to former National President, Sister Judy Darcy.
He retired from CUPE in 1999 and served for a decade as the head of Premier Gary Doer’s Cabinet Community and Economic Development Committee.
He was awarded the Order of Manitoba in 2011.
Eugene Kostyra was a dedicated trade unionist. His organizational skills were legendary as was his work ethic. He provided direct assistance to Local 500 and indeed to all CUPE members throughout his career.
He enjoyed national respect as a key New Democrat and was regularly sought for electoral and strategic assistance throughout the country.
We extend our heartfelt and deepest condolences to his wife Jeri, family and friends. His life commitment to the advancement of working people and social justice will always be remembered with deep fondness and respect.
