The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced the death of Tom O’Heron, a retired Collective Bargaining Director and long-serving union advocate. O’Heron, who was 69, began his career with IAM Local 21 in 1978 after training as a machinist at the Trane Company in Wisconsin.
O’Heron’s involvement with the union spanned more than four decades. He served as Directing Business Representative for District 66 before moving to positions within the IAM International office, including roles as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and later as Collective Bargaining Director until his retirement in 2016. During his tenure, he was known for negotiating contracts that provided fair wages, benefits, and protections for IAM members.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community activities. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball teams, enjoyed golf and other sports, supported his granddaughters’ interests, and participated in church activities as a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family and friends, noting that his leadership and generosity would be missed.
