A long-time labour leader in Windsor-Essex will be laid to rest Monday.
Mike Renaud passed away Oct. 30, a week shy of his 67th birthday.
In 1990, Renaud became 2nd Vice President of the then Canadian Auto Workers Union, now Unifor Local 195, before eventually becoming president in 1997.
From 2007 to 2023, Renaud served as national representative, working from the Unifor regional office before retiring in April 2023.
Emile Nabbout, the current president of Unifor Local 195, says Renaud was an "icon" in the labour community.
"He was always looking out for the little guy to make sure those people were being respected and that they had somebody behind them to fight on their behalf," he says. "To make sure the average working class people have somebody always standing by them to make sure they have a better life for them and their family."
Nabbout says Renaud was so involved and knowledgeable not just about the union but in the community.
"He loved baseball as well. He has done lots within the community. He loved that game and loved to train and coach kids," he says.
Renaud was active in the local baseball community, coaching his two boys and their teams for many years at LaSalle Turtle Club, LaSalle Titans, and Windsor Selects.
Nabbout says Renaud was also a leader who stood on the value of labour and wouldn't back down until the issue was resolved.
"The memory and all the good positive outcomes that he contributed to in the past will never die within the community and local 195," says Nabbout.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Church River Canard at 9399 N. Townline Rd. in LaSalle on Monday, Nov. 4, at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour prior, at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider contributing to the Memorial Fund for Michael through Families First.