Prominent community leader passes (arrangements added)

NEWS RELEASE

OSTROSKI FAMILY

************************* It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jack Ostroski Sr. in his 80th year.

Jack [shown in file photo] worked at Algoma Steel and became involved with the United Steelworkers Local 2251 in 1950.

He served as president of Local 2251 a total of 12 years during his career.

He also served as a staff representative for the United Steelworkers District 6 in Kingston.

Jack was instrumental in the 1992 restructuring of Algoma Steel that saved thousands of jobs in the Sault.

Jack was the recipient of the Medal of Merit in 1996 for his outstanding work in the labour movement.

But Jack was not only a union leader; he was also a community leader.

He was a member in varying capacities with the Sault Co-Op Food Store, Sault College board of governors, Soo Pee Wee Hockey Association, Queenstown Development Committee, Soo Riverfront Development Committee, Sault Twin Pad Arena Committee (now the John Rhodes Arena) and the United Way.

During Jack’s career he also served the chair of the Group Health Centre.

In 1996 Jack retired to spend time with his wife Gayle, their six children and their families.

Visitation will take place at Arthur’s Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. The funeral mass will be held at Precious Blood Cathedral on Thursday, September 1, 2011, at 10 a.m. *************************