UFCW mourns passing of Local 1518 President Kimberly Novak

Vancouver – May 7, 2024 – Beloved labour leader UFCW Local 1518 President Kimberly Novak passed away this past weekend, surrounded by family and loved ones.

The UFCW Canada family is mourning the loss of Kim – an exemplary leader of our union who will be very deeply missed.

"This tragic loss is felt strongly by our entire UFCW family. Kim was a visionary leader who fought passionately for our members; she was a stalwart advocate for human rights, gender equity, and workers across Canada," says UFCW Canada National President Shawn Haggerty. "I have been proud to work alongside Kim on both the UFCW Canada National Council and the UFCW International Executive Board: we have lost a formidable labour activist, dedicated colleague, and dear friend. Together, we grieve with our Local 1518 family, and we are keeping Kim's husband, children and family in our thoughts at this difficult time."

President Kimberly Novak led a remarkable life that made a positive difference in the lives of countless people. Throughout her time with UFCW 1518, Kim held various leadership roles, including as a union representative, director, and Secretary-Treasurer. When Kim was unanimously elected President of UFCW 1518, she made history as the first woman and youngest leader of the local union. She served as International Vice-President of UFCW International and on the UFCW Canada National Council. Kim dedicated her entire career to the fight for dignity and respect for all workers, leading the way not only for our union, but the wider labour movement.

UFCW Canada offers our sincere condolences to our union family at Local 1518 and know that this loss will be felt deeply by many.  You can read Local 1518's tribute their president here.

Local 1518 has asked that the family's privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time. In coming weeks, her local union will share information about how the UFCW and labour community can honour Kimberly's legacy.

As Kim’s family said best: “Do something today to embody how Kimberly lived. Be kind, make someone laugh, lend a hand.”

Thank you for your service and dedication, Sister Novak. You will be very missed.