AFTER WORKING for more than 23 years at Council 2, John Cole, Assistant Director of Staff Services, retired on February 1.

Cole, 54, began working for Council 2 in 1980 as Staff Representative in southeast Washington. Over the years, he represented county and city employees in 50 locals in these counties: Walla Walla, Franklin , Spokane, Pierce, Columbia, Asotin, Whitman, Skagit, King, Island, Thurston, Clallam and Kitsap.

At the time of his retirement he was working at the head office in Everett.

Looking back over his career, Cole said, “It was a time of continual challenges, but it was rewarding. It was my pleasure to represent the employees. I have made many lifelong friends through my profession.”

He said the face of public employment has changed dramatically since he began working for Council 2. “We are now governed by initiatives, “ he said. “As a result, union activities have become far more political than before. They also are more complex and sophisticated these days.”

“He has deservedly more than earned his years in retirement,” Chris Dugovich, Council 2 President/Executive Director said. “John and I worked together for close to 22 years. When I started working for Council 2 the staff numbered seven, of whom John was one.

“We had a long working friendship that grew out of many years of settling contracts and representing members across the state. I think John will still be stopping by from time to time.”

Cole said he will indeed stay in touch with Council 2 and will follow union activities. He also will stay involved in local politics in Camano Island, where he lives, will continue to serve on the board of directors of TAPCO Credit Union and will volunteer at the Stanwood Senior Center. He also plans several trips overseas.