Monday, June 8, 2009
In remembrance of Howard Ocobock
Howard Ocobock, the longtime Department of Transportation member activist out of Yakima Local 1326 and WFSE/AFSCME’s vice president since 2004, died Saturday night at home in Longview after a battle with cancer.
Ocobock, also a regional vice president of the Washington State Labor Council, battled his disease with dignity and grace while carrying out his duties as vice president. He visited just a little more than two weeks ago with Department of Corrections members who had just won a vote to keep their union and contract.
He will be remembered for his long service as a Local 1326 officer, WFSE/AFSCME Statewide Executive Board member, Transportation Policy Committee delegate and General Government Bargaining Team member. As vice president, Howard traveled the state to support members in job actions and other activities.
UPDATE: 6/9/09
Services for WFSE/AFSCME Vice President Howard Ocobock who died June 6 will be 1 p.m., next Monday, June 15, at Terrace Heights Chapel and Reception Center, 2807 Terrace Heights Drive, Yakima, WA 98901. A reception follows there. The phone number is (509) 453-9155.
For driving directions, log onto the Keith and Keith Funeral Home website at http://www.keithandkeith.com/locations.html.
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This is such a sad loss for WFSE and AFSCME. Howard was a great guy who really dedicated his life to his work with WFSE. Judy, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
ReplyDeleteI first met Howard during our last bargaining session. He was always very pleasant and a joy to work with. He was very friendly always going around the room and greeting us during each bargaining session. May he rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteJudy and Howards family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
ReplyDeleteI had known Howard since he began to get involved with our union many, many years ago. What always impressed me about Howard was that you could never have a better friend. He stuck beside you through thick and thin, his positive attitude always made you feel good to be around. He will always have a place in my heart and I will always miss him.
Judy what can I say, he really loved you! You made him very happy and I know he stayed around because he couldn't stand the idea of leaving you.
We know Howard was tired, but even at the bottom he would fight for us until the end.
"I love you my friend" is the last thing I was able to say to Howard a few weeks ago. He just looked at me turned a little red and said "I know"
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas
It has been one of my life's greatest pleasures getting to know Howard. He's been a mentor and a friend, and will be sorely missed. I will cherish each memory and celebrate his life.
ReplyDeletePerry Gordon
those of us that knew Howard could always expect a firm handshake and a smile whenever we met. Although we knew what to expect with his health, this loss is traumatic nonetheless. I great hole is left in WFSE and will be hard to fill. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Barbara in Yakima.
ReplyDeleteHoward, I'll miss you old friend.
As Judy's sister, I live in Kentucky, and got to meet Howard when he and Judy vacationed here and also on the few times I made it home to Washington. I've got to say that there has never been a more loving man in my sisters life and I know no other will be able to fill his shoes. He was always there for her thru thick and thin and you just don't find many men like that anymore...Our family will miss him deeply and I'm so thankful for the love that he brought into Judy's life.RIP Howard.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with Judy and Howard's family. My hunch is where ever we go after we die Howard is busy making friends with everyone and organizing to make it a better place. I miss you.
ReplyDeleteI always thought it was sweet that Howard cared and remained married to Barbara, had room in his life for Judy, and gave so much of himself to the Union. He was truly selfless and they surely don't come like that anymore.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great loss to his family, friends and Union. Howard was a wonderful man and will be missed by all!
ReplyDeleteI sit here with a heavy heart. My dear friend has passed away. Thank you Howard for all the memories and all the years you gave to the members. My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteLarry Flue
I first got to know Howard during negotiations for the '07-'09 contract. He always had a kind word and firm handshake for everyone and just generally seemed to be a great guy! My thoughts and prayers are with his family and Judy and her family. We're all going to miss him alot!
ReplyDeleteAs a memeber of DOT, I know how hard Howard fought for our issues. But even more so how hard he fought and promoted all WFSE issues it's members and causes.
ReplyDeleteI've always thought he was an unassuming man and listen to all issues. Ie work for all causes and often went beyone the norm to keep fairness everywhere.
It is indeed a sad day all Washington Labor movement, our Council and to us personnaly.
Don & Sherry Hewitt
My thoughts and prayers are with Judy and all of Howard's family and friends. Howard was an amazing leader who lived with compasssion and integrity that is not easy to come by these days. His passion for justice is to be admired and remembered by all who were lucky enough to know him. I am grateful I got to call him friend.
ReplyDeleteThank you for helping me through some dark days Howard. Your friendship means alot to me and I will always remember your kind smile, your helping hand, encouraging words, and hope for all things possible no matter how large the task. Thank you for having faith in me my dear friend. Rest in peace.
Amber Lewis
Howard is probably the one person who was most responsible for turning me into an activist when I lived in Sunnyside. Howard and Bob Chauvin. Together now organizing and spreading the good news. Yes, I've always been IN the union, but until I met Howard, I never WAS the union. Howard was one who could give the message in a subtle and thought provoking way. He made you WANT to get involved, WANT to participate and love this great union that we are. I shed my tears when I first learned that we were to lose Howard soon. But, like Adrianne, I told him I loved him and cherished him.. and ever gentle and graceful that he could be, he, to me, too, said... "I know". My heart goes out to all that knew Howard, both personally and professionally. His shoes will be near impossible to fill. Be well, be happy, be free, dear friend. The pain is no more.
ReplyDeleteKaren Mork
Howard was always the gentleman, shaking everbody's hand and telling them how glad he was to see them. He was great to tease, especially during negotiations, when I kept promising to "throw him under the bus." His reaction was to count to four with his fingers and mouth a four word phase, which I would interpret as his to me. He was always full of advice and reassurance when things got dicey. He was what our Union is supposed to embody.
ReplyDeleteHe was a good guy, a friend to all and will be sorely missed.
He said something at our executive board meeting this spring that has been etched into my mind. He told us we needed to be good to one another and be the best people we could be.
He was right. I looked up to Howard.
I am going to miss him.
Filthyfil
It is with great sorrow that I must say goodbye to a dear friend. Howard was a man of integrity, honesty, and loyalty. I am honored to have called him my friend and will miss him dearly. Howard had a passion for family,people and Union principles. He lived and spoke these values, always helping someone, speaking a kind word, or just listening. He had a smile that could light up a room and a heart as big as Heaven.
ReplyDeleteA gentle soul, he is at peace.
Sue Henricksen
Howard was a class man, a peace-filled and patient negotiator and a good man to sit and talk with until the wee hours, which I did a lot during the 07-09 negotiations. I loved the way he just instantly ingratiated himself with waiters and hotel clerks and I was envious of his always sharp dressing. He was always a man you could be proud to be represented by. Howard spoke to and for every level of state employee, although he had a quiet preference, I thought, for those who worked the hardest jobs for the least rewards. Howard was always there to help quiet me down when I lost my temper or my faith during bargaining. He taught me that battering "the enemy" won us nothing. He will be missed as a friend, as a leader and as a man of honor and courage. Say hello to all those who went before, Howard, as we are sure you are welcome at the meeting.
ReplyDeleteTerry McLafferty ( 843, retired )
Dear Howard,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are in a good place and no longer suffering. I will miss you. You were a joy to know. Thank you for your positive outlook, sincere and caring approach to all of those around you. You were a true gentleman.
God be with you Judy and Howard's family. Howard will be missed.
ReplyDeleteNancy Broyles
My thoughts and prayers are with Judy and the family. I had the opportunity to work with Howard on several committees over the years and he will be truly missed. He was a friend and brother. Through his conviction and dedication for the welfare of Washington State employees, several issues were resolved. His hard work will not be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteTawnia Baze
While I've only known Howard a couple of years, I have to say that he welcomed me to the WFSE family with a big hug and a smile. I soon learned that was who Howard was! He never faultered from that demeanor. During this last negotiation round we had a team member who had a family crisis. While it did not surprise me that the "team" jumped on this news and passed the hat to help this team member, it was the comment from one of the team that REALLY set Howard apart - she said, "If I ever am in need of help for anything, I want Howard on my side." I asked her what she meant and she told me that Howard, after already giving generously from his wallet, walked to the nearest ATM and got more money to round up the amount to an even number (and it wasn't just $20 or $40 either). He was remarkable man and I'm blessed to have known him. If there's a Union in Heaven, I know what Howard is up to!! Good bye, my friend. Kathy
ReplyDeleteI have only known Howard for a little while but the impression he made in my life as a newly active member of WFSE/AFSCME is unimaginable. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Howards' family. Both Judy and Barbara are blessed that this man was in their lives. I know that right now Howard is bargaining for better wages and benefits for the angels and God is listening. God bless you Howard for one day we will see each other again.
ReplyDeleteI don't know how to add to the sentiments left here - except to echo them. I was impressed with Howard since the day I met him (campaigning for VP - I think I still have my button!).
ReplyDeleteHis words and deeds were always born of the fire, idealism and integrity that only the deeply-rooted 'true believer' can posess. I will miss the kind smile that always found me just at the right moment (no matter how crowded the room was).
Judy, I'm just down the street so if ya need anything at all, give me a jingle (day or night).
-Becky Stephens
Howard was a true gentleman, always a kind word and a quick smile. I always sought Howard out for a hug no matter what union function we were at. All of our lives are better because Howard was a part of it all. Howard, you will be missed. -Lisa Luna
ReplyDeleteHoward, I loved your hugs, cheery "How ya doin'?" with such pure honesty, and I'm so glad we often laughed about the picture of me on your Yamaha during the '05-'07 bargaining! You helped make everything a great time! Glad you got the tattoo, it made you happy--Love always, Doreen Merrill
ReplyDeleteHoward sometimes talked about his love of photography. His attentive and engaging manner, to me, was like that of a skilled photographer.
ReplyDeleteI found him to be disarmingly friendly, welcoming, unassuming, and down to earth. What a blessing to have rubbed shoulders with him at all those union functions over the years.
Howard, I will miss your periodic phone calls, asking for support or ensuring voter turn out. I will miss your presence everywhere because you were everywhere. I wish you peace and joy in your new place surrounded by harmony and love. All the best to those you leave behind. Their hearts will ache and I hope they remember the happy times with you as those are the times that are so special.
ReplyDeleteWords cannot express the impact that Howard had on my life during my time with the Federation and subsequently. He encouraged me when I was frustrated, sometimes to the point of tears, during bargaining. He was always willing to take the time to help us work through difficult problems, either personal or professional.
ReplyDeleteI was so honored when he asked me to nominate him for VP at the last convention. As I said then, Howard embodied the principles and values of our union. He didn't back down from a fight when it was warranted, but was by nature a gentle soul.
The world seems a little dimmer since his passing. It was always comforting to know that he was a phone call away.
I miss his smile, his hugs, his laugh, his advice, his support, his enthusiasm, his commitment, and his ties.
Peace be to you, my brother.
In Solidarity,
Cathi Bailey Bright
I can only hope the be the Union person that Howard has shown us he is.
ReplyDeleteWhat a role model......
Bless You and Yours
Ron Kuchler 1463
In the years that Judy and Howard have been together, I have seen so much love between the two of them. He truly loved her so much. For Judy he was "one of a kind" and no one will ever be able to match his love for her. Judy just hold all your happy times in your heart and he will always be with you.
ReplyDeleteWe will all miss him,
Love, Cherry
Howard - the phone is ringing and it's Carol. Please pick up.
ReplyDeleteYou said the members deserve the best. You helped each of us be our best. Thank you for the years that you gave yourself to all of us in the labor movement. I know you need some rest so I'll let you go now and we'll talk later. Give my best to Judy and Barbara. Let them know that we care deeply about them. Talk to you soon, my friend.
A friend is not a fella who thinks everything is grand, a friend is one who knows your faults and doesn't give a damn!! Howard I am truly going to miss you, save a spot for me.
ReplyDeleteYour friend
Shellie Savage
Oh Howard...damn it guy I thought you would be there forever. I believe that you know now how much you mean't to all of us...you touched so many lives...
ReplyDeleteDOT and WFSE buddy...I will miss you so dearly.
Best dressed dude on the block...actually in the state...it brought smiles to faces locked in battle.
Judy, those of us who lose our loved ones...it is so painful....my thoughts and wishes of "time and healing" are there for you.
Sincerely,
Sue Dinneen
Howard I always told you that the Great Tommy LaSorta has Dodger Blue running through his veins but you had AFSCME green running through yours. We go back a long way and I will miss you buddy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Judy and family.
ReplyDeleteRon and Mary Hollis
Oh Howard I will always hold my most special moment and time I had with you. That was the day I woke up in my hospital bed and you and Judy where standing beside my bed. Howard you held my hand and told me to stay strong and do not give up. The conversation we had together gave me strength to sit up no matter how bad I felt. Howard I knew that I had to be strong for you to, I knew that it was our last time together in this life and you came to say goodbye to me. I am sorry I lost a true union brother that I have know since 1987, but I celebrate your home comming to the next life. You are in no mor pain and suffering, your battle down here is now over. Howard your Lecgacy will live in all of us forever and so will your spirit, every convention, conference, training and meetings that AFSCME and WFSE have. Howard all of us will one day have to take that journey, but it is so good to know when my turn come you will be there waiting for me with open arms and I will be with my union brother again. Thank you Howard for being there for me when I almost gave up when I could not deal with my illness. You where there for me, Love you forever until we meet again... ALTHEA Lute
ReplyDeleteLocal 1556 sends it's condolences.
ReplyDeleteHoward what am I going to do when its snowing a blizzard on the pass and I want to come home. You were always there to guide me thru the storm ,stop so I could peel my hands from the steering wheel and have a cigarette and then off we would go again.I know you are an angel know and will keep me safe and could you also keep the radar guns away from me .I'll try not to drive too fast I promise.
ReplyDeleteYou have been a union man for as long as I can remember and you will not be forgotten. We miss you but I know you are better now.
Till I see you again
Julianne Moore
Thanks Howard, for all you have done for us members. My thoughts and prayers are for those who remain. We will continue the good fight.
ReplyDeleteConnie D, Local 1253
I was very sad to learn of Howard's passing. He's was a great person and a lot of fun to work with. He was the only male member of WFSE's Women's Committee and was always willing to be our 'model' and was great fun to be with.
ReplyDeleteWFSE has had few members who can match his record for stepping up to the plate to do whatever needed to be done.
WFSE has lost a real union lion andwe have lost a good friend. He will truly be missed.
Dory Lohrey-Birch
Howard epitomized the word "Brother" in the truest sense.
ReplyDeleteHoward always had a kind word for everyone -- even when on different sides of an issue. He always had the best interest of our organization in mind.
Howard, you're at peace at last & out of pain.
As one Brother to another & one Veteran to another, I salute you, Howard. Thank you for being there.
Steve McGillis (313)
When I was at Policy Committee this weekend, it didnt look the same without Howard, any union thing, Howard would always take the time to talk to everybody and ask them how they were doing. He was really a good friend and would consider anybody his family and once you met him, he acted like he knew you forever.
ReplyDeleteI'll never forget the time it was the night before policy committee, I was in the bar having a beer inside SeaTac Hilton and I saw Howard walking by and I had to get up and say Hi to him and he told me had to go to a dinner and somebody was suppose to go and had to back out the last minute so I went and Govoner Christine Gregiore was there and Howard took my picture. This was special to me I never done anything like that before.
Thank you for everything Howard, you will be missed down here on earth, at least your with God now and all your pain and grief are over.
I'm sorry I couldn't make it to the funeral.
Willy Grimes
Local 1381
Goodbye Howard! Bon Voyage and Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your wonderful comments and memories about Howard. I, and my family, have been warmed so much by reading them. Though my heart aches, I am so happy that so many of you recognized his wonderful amazing qualities. I know he is grinning down on us all and wishing he could shake everyone's hand. You all helped to give him a powerful send-off!
ReplyDeleteJudy DeVoe
What a great tribute to Howard that so many attended his service.It was wonderful to see how many lives Howard had touched,your thoughts and prayers were a great comfort.Thank You for the beautiful flowers and cards.A special Thank You to everyone who helped with the food and the reception ,Howard would be proud of his brothers and sisters of Co. 28.
ReplyDeleteBarbara Ocobok