George KratzerGeorge Kratzer, First General Vice President for the Ironworkers International Union, passed away on Saturday, March 23 at the age of 62.

George began his 42-year career with the Ironworkers as an apprentice in 1970. He subsequently held several elected offices with Local 290 in Dayton, Ohio. He became a business agent in 1984 and was appointed general organizer in 2000.

"George was one of the first local business agents I dealt with when I joined the NMAPC in 1988," recalled Steve Lindauer, NMAPC Impartial Secretary and TAUC CEO. "He personally visited our office to discuss a problem. But he didn't come to complain - he came with ideas and a plan to deal with the situation so that everyone would benefit. He showed a willingness to work with the NMAPC from the very beginning. He understood the value of the Agreement and the work that the Committee did to advance the tripartite philosophy. George saw the big picture. He was a 'stand-up guy,' as they say in our industry, and he will be sorely missed."

George is survived by his wife of more than forty-two years, Shelley Wright Kratzer; daughter Stephanie; granddaughter Maggie; and three brothers. TAUC and NMAPC extend their deepest condolences to Shelley and the rest of the Kratzer family. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Wilmington Assembly of God, 609 W. Locust St., Wilmington, OH 45177.

April 02, 2013