In Memoriam: Jim Michael, 1929-2020

February 5 2020

John James Michael — "Jim" as he was known to friends and colleagues — passed away on Jan. 25 at his home in North Carolina.

Jim was a true leader in the union construction and maintenance industry and contributed greatly to both NMAPC and TAUC. But his legacy extends far beyond the workplace. He contributed to his country — serving as a tail-gunner in World War II as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps — and leaves behind a large family to cherish his legacy, including his wife Judy, seven children, 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Jim was born on September 24, 1929, in Buffalo, New York. Later, as a young man, he played for the Buffalo Bills as a running back until a knee injury forced him to give up the game. He moved on into a lifelong career in construction in northwest Indiana that would last until he was in his late eighties! In 1998, when he was with Artisan Corporation, Jim was appointed to NMAPC's Labor-Management Committee as an alternate employer representative. In 2002, he became a regular voting member and served in that capacity until 2018, when he retired.

"Jim was a true gentleman," said Steve Lindauer, TAUC CEO and Impartial Secretary and CEO of the NMAPC. "His knowledge of the steel industry in northwest Indiana was second to none. I always knew if I had a question, Jim was the guy to ask. He was a strong supporter of both the NMAPC and TAUC, and a genuine pleasure to be around. We have lost not only a valued and experienced colleague, but a truly great American. Jim will be missed."

Both TAUC and NMAPC extend our condolences to Jim's family. For a full obituary, along with details on how to contribute to Jim's memory, click here.