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George Zuke, who worked a dozen years for ASEA as an organizer and business agent, passed away last week.

If you visited the ASEA Headquarters or attended a union convention or rally in Anchorage you likely encountered George Zuke. George's good humor is legendary and he always demonstrated a sense of duty and devotion to union members despite the challenges of being an organizer and business agent.

George was hired by ASEA in January of 2004 after many years of experience with AFSCME in the Midwest, including 13 years working for AFSCME as an organizer and field representative. Prior to working at ASEA, he performed external and internal organizing, trained members and coworkers, conducted GOTV campaigns, and published newsletters for AFSCME Iowa Council 61, a position he'd held since 2001.

He was an AFSCME Organizer from 1999-2001, AFSCME Field Representative/Organizer from 1996-1999, Field Representative/Organizer with the State of Nevada Employees Association/AFSCME from 1994-1996, and Organizer with the Nebraska Association of Public Employees/AFSMCE from 1991-1994. From 1984 to 1994 he worked for the Department of Corrections in the State of Nebraska.

George retired from ASEA in 2016. He was appreciated by coworkers for his enthusiasm and deterimination. Rest in peace, George.

Messages and cards may be sent to his family c/o Shane Zuke, 695 Sole Addiction Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89183.

 

George Zuke, Friend and Coworker


I had the privilege of working at ASEA with George Zuke for many years beginning in 2005 on numerous organizing assignments across Alaska.

Throughout countless hours of door-to-door outreach efforts in challenging weather conditions, airline flight delays during work travel, or any difficult situations we faced, George always managed to maintain his sense of humor and smile.

George never failed to show each person he encountered in his daily life dignity because he believed so strongly that everyone deserves it.

We talked about many things over the years as colleagues and friends. He often said his decision to work in the labor movement was not a matter of choice. Instead, it was his opportunity in life to help working families take on tough challenges and try to make their lives and our communities a little better. 

May we all remember that George Zuke truly lived the essence of dignity in all aspects of his life.

In solidarity,
Sam Rhodes