Vale Gary Coombs

Date: 01 May 2009

Gary Coombs, son of former MUA leader John Coombs and Patrick picket veteran dies after a long illness

Dear Comrades, It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of Gary Coombs earlier this morning after a long and courageous struggle against his Multiple Sclerosis.
Gary was diagnosed over 25 years ago and faced his situation with good humour, great character and dogged determination. His family and particularly John and Gwen were tireless supporters and carers of Gary, right until his passing. They cared for him full time at their home and were loving and committed to his every need. Gary was just over 50.

He was a tireless supporter and advocate for our union and the labour movement, and spent much time on the Patrick Picket line in the front row of opposition to the criminal conspiracy against our union. He attended the May Day protest at the Picket Line in Sydney, and no doubt he fought hard in his last week against all expectations to be a part of his last May Day.

I know the many unions and members , along with the very many friends of the MUA and John and Gwen and the Coombs family both here and internationally will want me to pass on their deepest sympathies and condolences, which I have done through a phone message directly with John and will also do formally today. The union and John and Gwen have received many messages of support and best wishes in the last difficult days of Gary's struggle, and can I relay the deep appreciation that meant for the family in this difficult time.

Details of the service will be made available as they are determined by the family.

Vale Gary Coombs, fighter and worker, now at peace

Yours in Unity

Paddy Crumlin

National Secretary

Maritime Union of Australia

For further information

Contact:	Zoe Reynolds
Union:	Maritime Union of Australia
Phone:	0417 229873
WWW:	http://mua.tcp.net.au/

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