Martha “Marti” O’Rourke

IN MEMORIAM

On Saturday January 8, 2011 we suffered the loss of longtime union advocate Martha “Marti” O’Rourke. APFA extends heart-felt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. Marti’s union involvement has spanned the past four decades. Starting from the mid 1960’s to sitting on the Board of an ongoing arbitration currently making its way through the System Board of Adjustments. Laura Glading is joined by past APFA President’s who together mark the many contributions Marti has made to our organization.

“Marti was a long term union activist and champion of fairness in the workplace. Dedication should have been her middle name.”
Patt Gibbs

“Marti worked diligently throughout her career. She had the ability of maintaining a calm demeanor and always seemed to operate without ego. When called upon by Officers or members she remained ready and willing to assist.”
Kathy Knoop

“Marti rose to the position of Senior Statesperson of the Flight Attendant Union serving in numerous positions providing reliable knowledge and expertise to benefit the position and status of the Flight Attendant core. She continually rose above politics, regardless of her personal position on issues, to assist in achieving the best possible outcomes for the membership. We, the Flight Attendants, APFA and American Airlines have benefited greatly from all of the contributions and sacrifices she so willingly made to create a safer, more professional work environment for us all.”
Joann Donovan

?, Marti O’Rourke, Claire Corbette, Kathy Gegenfurtner, ?, Judy Pankowski-Ritchie, Peggy Sutherlin and J.D. Preston (ALSAA President) at DCA airport, in mediation for 1971 contract.

 

Prep for Arbitration – November 30, 2010. Liz Mallon, Marti O’Rourke, Brett Durkin

“Marti gladly participated when called on to assist whether with contract negotiations, System Board cases or in the resolution of issues which arose throughout her career. She willingly provided advice and candid assessments in circumstances involving American Airlines management, the Federal Government, other Unions and fellow members.”
Michael Kelliher

“If there is an outstanding attribute above all else that I could use to personify Marti, it would be to say she was the epitome of team spirit. She energetically participated in many events involving leaders, negotiators and past leaders and thoughtfully shared her opinion without bias or political agenda. No greater trait can be attributed to one of our past leaders. Marti’s friendship and leadership will be truly missed.”
Denise Hedges

“Martha O’Rourke was a very special human being who had the incredible skill of being able to focus both on her family and personal life, while also being committed to challenging professional leadership responsibilities. I will always remember Marti’s bright spirit – that was quite infectious to those around her – even during stressful times. Marti was a strong role model who’s ëlife work’ clearly showed that one person can make a difference in many different ways!”
Tommie L. Hutto-Blake

“I can’t even begin to summarize the many outstanding attributes of Marti O’Rourke, an outstanding union advocate and friend to all. She is one of those unique individuals that steps forward for no gain other than for those she champions. Her willingness to put her life on hold to advance labor’s cause, in any capacity, has been a true gift to which not just APFA but other organizations have benefited. Any issue with which she has collaborated was inevitably made better because of her expertise and commitment.”
Laura Glading

Beginning with the Air Line Steward and Stewardesses Association (ALSSA), Local 550 Transport Workers Union, Air Transport Division (TWU-ATD), which represented the Flight Attendant groups of American, TWA, Eastern, Southern, CaribAir, and Northwest, Marti sat on the LGA council from 1967-1968, was elected BUF Chairperson 1968-1972, elected SAN Chairperson 1972-1973, and ALSSA President from 1973-1974.

When TWU chartered Local 552 to represent American Airlines Flight Attendants in 1974, Marti sat as the interim President through the transition. She then went on to serve in several capacities within Local 552 including the International Executive council of TWU from 1973-1977.

Marti negotiated the first International agreement with AAL in 1970, the Basic Agreement with AAL in 1971 an in 1974. Then in 1980 she was elected Vice President of APFA for a two-year term.

Marti had a quiet understanding of the issues with the ability to tap into any argument with a strong voice that championed the labor movement. She was always available for the membership regardless of political views – a truly selfless advocate. She will be sorely missed.