It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Buzz Hargrove, one of the most influential and beloved figures in our movement’s history.
On behalf of all of us at Unifor, we extend our deepest condolences, love and solidarity to Buzz’s family, his loved ones, and his many friends across the labour movement. We are mourning alongside you.
Buzz Hargrove was unmatched in so many ways. He was a true fighter for working people, a wonderful and generous human, and an outstanding trade union leader.
Buzz was more than a former union president—he was a giant in the Canadian labour movement and a fierce, uncompromising champion for workers. His legacy is etched into the very fabric of Unifor and will continue to guide us for generations to come.
Buzz never forgot his roots. Born in Bath, New Brunswick, one of ten children, he carried his working-class values from the shop floor of Chrysler’s Windsor Assembly Plant all the way to national leadership. From his early days as a steward making seat cushions to his pivotal role in the CAW’s break from the UAW, Buzz helped build a proudly independent and Canadian voice for workers.
As National President of the CAW from 1992 until his retirement in 2008, Buzz led negotiations with some of the country’s largest employers—GM, Ford, Chrysler, Air Canada, CN Rail—always with the goal of raising standards for all. But his vision went beyond contracts. He believed deeply in social unionism, fighting for public health care, retirement security, equity, and social justice.
He was tenacious and relentless, and a great leader who inspired generations of union activists. What many might not know is his patience and generosity in sharing his many skills and knowledge with others.
Buzz showed us what it means to lead with heart, intellect, and courage. He never backed down from a fight if it meant defending workers and building a fairer country.
Even after retirement, Buzz remained an active and powerful voice for labour. His contributions were recognized with multiple honorary degrees and, in 2008, his appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada.
Our union has lost an incredible champion. His memory will live on in the work we do every day to fight for justice, fairness, and dignity for all workers.
We will share details of a celebration of Buzz’s life and legacy in the coming days. For now, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on his extraordinary contributions—and the responsibility we carry to continue the work he so passionately defended.
To honour his legacy, we’ve gathered a photo collection of Buzz’s decades of activism and leadership, which you can view here.
In solidarity,
Lana Payne, National President
Len Poirier, National Secretary-Treasurer
Daniel Cloutier, Québec Director
Gavin McGarrigle, Western Regional Director
Samia Hashi, Ontario Regional Director
Jennifer Murray, Atlantic Regional Director