Walt Bailey always was a distinctive presence

YOU ALWAYS knew when Walt Bailey was around. For one thing, he was a strong presence everywhere he went. For another, he was passionate about union causes, determined they should be known and advanced.

But perhaps most of all you knew he was there because of his distinctive red suspenders.

“He wore them everywhere he went,” says Trina Young, Council 2 Staff Representative, who knew Bailey for 26 years through working with Local 275, which represents Grays Harbor workers.

“His red suspenders were something I always expected to see at labor functions across the state,” adds Chris Dugovich, Council 2 President and Executive Director. It seemed Bailey was always there when union matters were being debated or promoted. And he was always among the first in line when jobs were being assigned.

His presence is gone now. Bailey, 67, died in May and the union movement has lost a staunch advocate and a hard-working supporter.

“He was a long-term active member who will be missed by all,” says Dugovich.

Many strikes took place in Grays Harbor County during the 80s and 90s, says Young.

“During that time, Walt and other members of 275 often worked in a coalition with other unions. He was very passionate about the union and about democracy.”

Bailey worked for the City of Aberdeen, much of it with the Engineering Department, for 27 years before retiring in 1998. Always involved in the Local, Bailey also served as president of Friends of Labor and was active in the Democratic Party.

Even after he retired, he remained involved with labor and politics and in representing Council 2, Young adds. “One of my favorite memories of Walt is when he was standing on a picket line holding these big black signs. Walt had metal rivets all the way around his.

“Nobody dared to cross that picket line when he was there.”