Reprinted here are cards of thanks from the families of deceased Stamping Plant retired employees that were written to UAW Local 588.
From the family of Ray Plock
"Dear Brothers and Sisters of Local 588,
The Bible and the gorgeous basket of fresh flowers were a balm to our injured souls. They were prominently displayed at Ra's memorial.
Ra Plock was proud to serve and very proud of his home local. Thank you for your remembrance. Sincerely, Alana Plock"
December 2006
From the family of Norbert 'Pat' Niemojuski
"Thank you for the beautiful flower arrangement. Your kindness and sympathy in our recent sorrow will always be remembered with deep gratitude.
The family of Norbert "Pat" Niemojuski
Warren, Dawn and Kristy Clausing"
November 2006
From the family of Paul Michelis
"Dear Friends, My dad was so proud to be a part of the U.A.W. Thank you for the beautiful arrangement and your kind words.
With much respect,
Marianne, Dawn and Paula"
March 2004
From the family of Robert White
"Thanks for the love and support shown to all of us during this time of sorrow whether it be prayers, food, flowers, cards or just being there. It was truly appreciated.
Thanks also for the beautiful Bible in wooden box. This will be cherished!
---Donna White and Family"
March 2003
From the family of Jessie Childress
"Perhaps you sent a lovely card.
Or sat quietly in a chair.
Perhaps you sent a funeral spray.
If so I saw it there.
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words.
As any friend could say.
Perhaps you were not there at all.
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console our hearts,
we thank you so much whatever the part.
---Family of Jessie L. Childress"
October 2002
From the family of Louis Heinrichs, Sr.
"My Grandfather was the type of person who brought joy to everyone he met. He was deeply loved and will be missed by many. Comfort comes in knowing he is with God. Thank you all for your many condolences.
---Laura Heinrichs & Family"
July 2002
From the family of George Vrehas
"We would like to thank you so much for the lovely floral piece. Your generosity is beyond words. Thank you so much for visiting George for the last time. He has many fond memories. This was his whole life. Again, thanks for everything and hopefully George will never be forgotten.
Love, Mary and Mike Griner, John Vrehas, and Nancy Vrehas"
June 2002
From Mrs. Rufus Burney, Sr.
"Dear UAW Local 588,
Having just lost my husband a month ago, he was a strong Union person. Our son is at Kelly Springfield and when I see workers in the town I do all my trading in and banking, etc, I see people with shirts on that say, "Vote No." I ask them if they knew what that meant. They tell me, "No." I know what it means to me so I tell them the success we have had in the Midwest with the Union. They don't understand having been told only to vote as told. I am proud to be a union spouse. We could not have the life we have had without the Union and insurance. I hope you continue sending the UAW 588 Reporter to me as I enjoy reading and the quotes that I read in it.
Thanks for letting me write this note to you. I love reading about the Midwest. We lived in Indiana for 26 years, and have been married 55 years. Rufus gave me a 2002 Ranger gold truck for our many years together. I love it. He never rode in it or hardly every saw it. I need a Retiree sticker for my truck. I have one on my car and get asked many questions about it.
Sincerely,
Mrs. R. Burney, Sr."
May 2002
