For
more than 45 years, Charlene Meek has greeted 751 members with
a smile and offered her assistance. On May 1st, Charlene retired
from literally a lifetime of service at our Union.Charlene came to work at 751 in 1956 when she was just 17-years-old and remembers taking the bus to the old Seattle Union Hall in Georgetown. Little did she know when she hired into 751, this job would encompass her entire adult working life.
Charlene has been a fixture at 751. Her constant smile and positive attitude have comforted thousands of members throughout her years of service. Her pleasant personality helped her adapt to the various positions she has worked. Over the 45 years, Charlene has been assigned to every location (Seattle, Renton, Everett and Auburn), as well as worked in every department (Dues Office, Health and Benefits Office, Business Rep Office, Wage Determination Office and District President's Office). She worked under ten different District Presidents, survived countless Boeing layoffs, and cheerfully accepted any position she was assigned.
She appreciates the value of Union
membership and has been proud to see the tremendous gains 751
has obtained for Boeing workers. Charlene recalls the Boeing Retirement
Plan was originally negotiated in her first year at 751. She remembers
when members worked the week between Christmas and New Years --
before the holiday week was negotiated in the 1970's. When members hit the picket lines in 1965, 1977, 1989 and 1995, Charlene was there to provide support, encouragement and help in any way possible. She recalls the massive layoffs in the late 1960's and early 1970's and the devastating impact on the Puget Sound economy.
Throughout her tenure at 751, her commitment and genuine concern for the membership have been evident. For all the extra miles you walked to help our members and for all the years you gave to this Union -- thank you.
We couldn't have made it without you!