It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we mourn the tragic loss of Joe Cunningham, a respected and beloved member of Laborers Local 310, who lost his life in a devastating workplace accident this morning while working on the Sherwin-Williams project. Joe’s passing is not only a tremendous loss to the labor community but a heartbreaking reminder of the risks our union brothers and sisters face every day in the line of duty.
There are no words powerful enough to fully express the shock, sorrow, and pain that has rippled through our union halls, job sites, and homes in the wake of this tragedy. A man of deep integrity, fierce work ethic, and unwavering loyalty, Joe Cunningham was more than just a worker—he was a friend, a mentor, a family man, and a proud representation of what it meant to be part of Local 310.
A Pillar on the Job and in Life
Joe brought more than just skill to his work — he brought pride, purpose, and heart. His hands helped build the very structures we rely on, and his presence brought stability and strength to every crew he was a part of. Colleagues remember him as a steady force on chaotic job sites, someone you could always count on to stay late, to help a newcomer, or to simply show up every day with quiet determination and a can-do attitude.
He led by example — not because he sought recognition, but because that’s who he was. Whether he was pouring concrete in the rain, hoisting materials under the sun, or standing side by side with his fellow laborers, Joe did his job with humility, honor, and grit.
A Family Man, Gone Too Soon
Off the clock, Joe was known for his deep love for his family. He spoke often of his children, his pride in their accomplishments, and the joy he found in being a father and partner. His coworkers say his eyes lit up when he talked about his family — a reminder that the ones who labor hardest also love hardest.
Joe’s sudden passing leaves an unimaginable void in the hearts of his family, his friends, and his brothers and sisters in Laborers Local 310. His death serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent dangers faced in construction and labor-intensive work, and why safety, training, and solidarity must always remain at the forefront of our mission.
United in Grief and Solidarity
As we grieve together, we also stand together — as a union, as a community, and as a family. In times like these, we are reminded that we do not walk this road alone. There is comfort in unity, in shared memory, and in honoring Joe’s life by continuing to advocate for every worker’s right to a safe and respectful workplace.
Plans are underway to honor Joe’s legacy through a memorial, with details to be announced soon. Laborers Local 310 has also launched support efforts for the Cunningham family during this heartbreaking time.
Forever in Our Brotherhood
Joe Cunningham’s contributions will live on — not just in the buildings he helped create, but in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the example he set. He may be gone, but his spirit will forever echo through the break rooms, scaffolding, and union halls of Local 310.
Rest in power, Brother Joe. Your work is done. We’ll carry it from here.