With profound sadness, I share the passing of ATU International Secretary-Treasurer Oscar Owens on Friday, October 25. I offer my deepest condolences on behalf of ATU Local 113 Sisters and Brothers to his family, friends and all those who cherished his wisdom and experience.
Mr. Owens will be remembered as a respected leader and tireless advocate, building an extraordinary legacy of service and commitment. His work had profound impact – like with civil rights through founding of the ATU Black Caucus to empower African Americans – for the ATU and the entire labour movement.
A U.S. Army veteran, Mr. Owens joined ATU Local 192-Oakland, CA, in 1966, as a bus operator for AC Transit. In 1973 he became a shop steward and rose to become its President and Business Agent. He then served the International for more than 37 years alongside six International Presidents, as a Special Organizer, an International Representative, an International Vice President, and International Secretary-Treasurer, a post he was unanimously reelected to seven times.
During this time of mourning, ATU Local 113 members recommit themselves to hard work, honesty and integrity – values Mr. Owens lived by every day.
– Carlos Santos, President of ATU Local 113