Carl Sibley was known in the IAM as a tireless advocate for his members – and for workers in general. Employers also knew that and paid him the respect he deserved.
On October 18th, 2021, a beloved husband, father, grandpa, friend to many, and advocate for “the underdog” passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family. Carl is lovingly remembered by his wife Leena, their children and grandchildren.
Carl was born in Marshalltown, Nova Scotia on July 5th, 1941, to parents John and Catherine Sibley. One of 12 children, he worked various jobs before relocating to St. Thomas, Ontario.
Carl started working for GKN Sinter Metals in December 1964 and became an IAM member. It wasn’t long before he became active at various levels of his local, his district and his union.
Carl was elected the Directing Business Representative (DBR) of District 184 in October 1997. St. Thomas was still a major manufacturing hub in Ontario with many locals and IAM members numbering in the thousands. He spent the last ten years of his working career as a full-time IAM representative. He retired in October 2006.
“Carl was a strong leader, a clever negotiator, and definitely the man you wanted going in to fight for what was right,” said Ken Atterbury, longtime active IAM member of IAM Local 1975.
Craig Mansell, who ultimately followed Sibley as DBR of District 184, credits Sibley with a great deal. “Carl was a great mentor to me when he introduced me to the IAMAW at LL1975 and then District 184. He taught me about labour before my first Leadership program at the W3 Center. I was well-prepared for dealing with the members of LL1975 and management. He saw something in me that I didn’t know existed. Carl took me under his wing and I will forever be grateful. I have many fond memories attending past OPCM Conventions and many labour rallies with Carl. He will be missed.”
Funeral service will be held at Williams Funeral Home, 45 Elgin St., St. Thomas on Saturday, October 23rd, 2021 at 11:30. Interment of ashes to be held at a later date. A visitation will be held at the funeral home prior to the funeral service from 10:30am-11:30am.
This article is adapted from the full obituary for Carl Sibley.
