Statement from IBB President Jones on the passing of Mark H. Ayers

APRIL 9, 2012 — It is with extreme sorrow that I acknowledge the loss of Mark H. Ayers, our friend and brother, who led the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) of the AFL-CIO until his sudden death yesterday.

As President and Secretary Treasurer of the BCTD, Brother Ayers served with extraordinary passion and commitment. He was a model unionist who worked tirelessly for the good of all the unions making up the Building Trades and was widely admired for his fortitude and his unwavering effort in furthering labor’s mission.

As a personal friend to me and to the entire Boilermakers union, Mark was ready and willing to support our struggles and back our initiatives. He spoke at our conventions and conferences. He stood with us when we suffered the loss of Legislative Director Abe Breehey, just a year ago this month.

Brother Ayers will be sorely missed as a close friend and one of labor’s stellar leaders.

Our heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to his family and friends.

Newton B. Jones
President
International Brotherhood of Boilermakers