John Tune, 1955-2014 – (7/24/2014)

John Tune, 1955-2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014

John Tune, an early and influential member of NATCA who began his long FAA career in 1981 and was a strong leader who served two terms as Central Regional Vice President, passed away on July 23. He was 58.

Mr. Tune was a veteran member of Kansas City Center, where he served as Facility Representative. He was elected Central RVP in 2000 and served for six years. After his retirement, Mr. Tune remained active in both NATCA and with many labor causes. 

His passing has drawn an outpouring of fond, loving remembrances of a man who was selfless, dedicated, and supremely passionate about working with, and representing, his Union brothers and sisters.

Paul Rinaldi
President
“We are very saddened to hear of John’s passing. He was the consummate NATCA activist and leader. During his career at ZKC, as RVP of the Central Region, and even in retirement with NATCA’s Boots on the Ground program, he was the perfect example of a leader and was always there for the NATCA membership. NATCA is in a much better place because of John’s contributions over the last 27 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jan, and his family. Rest in peace my good friend!”

Trish Gilbert
Executive Vice President
“I remember spending many hours on the phone with John when I was the FacRep at ZHU and he was the FacRep at ZKC. He was a mentor, a collaborator, a leader and a fighter. It was no surprise to see him serve on the National Executive Board as the Central Region Vice President. Even after that and into retirement he served the membership in the NATCA/AFL-CIO labor programs. He was a selfless, genuine and loyal friend, brother and activist. I will miss his clever wit, support, counsel and mostly his hug.”

Kevin Peterson
Central RVP since 2009
“John was a mentor to me while I was the facility rep at MCI. After I became RVP I often looked to John for counsel. John and I spoke regularly after he retired. John was a true friend and he had a deep concern for worker rights which he continued fighting for every day of his life.  I will miss his friendship and his leadership.”

Bill Otto
Preceded Mr. Tune as Central RVP and knew him for 30 years
“John was the perfect NATCA leader.  He fiercely defended his people and was a staunch advocate of improving working conditions. John was an example to us all and, although he will be sorely missed, his legacy will live on.”

Howard Blankenship
Succeeded Mr. Tune as Central RVP in 2006
“John was a friend, mentor, and brother to me. Even though he will always be remembered for his dedication to the men and women of NATCA, he also cared for and helped working men and women in all walks of life. Many have been touched by John and he will be missed.”

Pat Forrey
Former NATCA President; served with Mr. Tune on the NEB when he was Great Lakes RVP
“John was one of those kind of guys who was quiet but when he spoke, people listened. He usually was the voice of reason. He was your typical Midwest, down-to-earth kind of person; never complained at all. What a great guy and he was a great friend of mine. He’s going to be sorely missed.”

In lieu of flowers, Mr. Tune’s family asks for donations to be made in John’s name to Kids of Our Heroes Camp.
Send to:
Bill Buckley
P.O. Box 58
Cape Fair, MO 65624