James F. “Jimmy” Nelson, Sr., who served as UE Local 506 president, passed away on March 31. He was the son of Local 506's first president, John Nelson.
Nelson started out as a laborer at the GE plant in Erie, PA, working in Building 63. He served many years as a chief steward before becoming president of his local. Nelson took great pride in advocating for his fellow workers — pushing for fair wages, working conditions, and benefits during each contract battle he participated in. Nelson also served on the local's political action committee and was active in the Erie community. As chairperson of Erie County Labor Congress, he fought against big business union busting in the late 1980's. He also served as Secretary-Treasurer of former UE District Six after running on a platform of “aggressive struggle.”
“Much like his father John Nelson, Jimmy was a force of nature for UE and its historic Local 506,” said UE General President Scott Slawson. “He served in many local leadership roles and was President for 10 years. Jimmy embraced the true spirit of the Union. Words can never capture the contributions the Nelson family provided during critical moments in labor’s most epic struggles.”