The ATU is sad to report the passing of Ken Foster on Friday, May 19, 2023, at the age of 83. Ken was the first Director of the ATU Canadian Council, now ATU Canada.

"On behalf of our more than 200,000 ATU members, we send our deepest condolences and prayers to Ken Foster's wife Pat, his family, and his brothers and sisters at Local 1505-Winnipeg, MB," said ATU International President John Costa. "As our Union's first Canadian Council Director, Ken was the voice of our members and Union across Canada on legislation, policy, education, health and safety, labour, and other issues. He was a true trailblazer for transit workers across Canada."

Brother Ken Foster joined Local 1505-Winnipeg, MB, as a Bus Operator for Winnipeg Transit on July 1, 1974. He quickly rolled up his sleeves to get involved in his Local, serving as the Local's Recording Secretary, and was later elected Vice President of the Local. In July 1983, the ATU Canadian Council, now ATU Canada, tapped Brother Foster to be the first full-time General Executive Secretary. His title was eventually changed to Director, and he served for more than 23 years in that position until his retirement in 2006.

Brother Foster also served as Co-Chair of the Motor Carrier Passenger Council of Canada and was an inductee to the CUTA Hall of Fame in 2006.

"With his pioneering spirit, Ken Foster raised the bar during his leadership at the ATU Canadian Council, and his legacy will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences to Ken's family and friends," said John Di Nino, ATU Canada President.

Brother Foster is survived by his wife, Pat Foster, four children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends.