In Memory of Ray Burruel

Download the April 2008 issue in PDF format

Nov. 2, 1953 — March 18, 2008

Ray Burruel was dedicated to the labor movement and social justice. Ray served as a SEIU Local 1877 (Justice for Janitors) Senior Organizer/Negotiator and delegate to the Labor Council. Ray represented members at the Anaheim Convention Center, San Diego Convention Center, San Diego Sports Arena, Del Mar Racetrack, Petco Park, Angel Stadium of Anaheim, Qualcomm Stadium, Albertsons, Ralphs, Stater Bros., Vons and Gelsons Markets.

When Ray was employed by HERE Local 681, he represented union members at the Disneyland Hotel and other large hotels in Orange County. He also worked for CWA Local 9510 in San Francisco and Orange County as a negotiator. Ray was very involved in his community and held executive board positions for organizations such as treasurer of the Labor Council of Latin American Advancement and vice president of Latino Youth Leadership Institute.

Before becoming involved with the Labor Movement, he served 11 years with the United States Marine Corps as a weapons specialist and military police officer. During his youth, Ray was a member of the Brown Beret Organization. Ray is survived by his girlfriend Judith Chavez, daughters Sonia Martinez and Sandra Martinez, and granddaughter Nevaeh Jackson. Ray came from a family of 21 brothers and sisters and long extended labor family. Ray is also survived by his dogs, Roxie and Dallas. He will be missed by all in the labor family.