Mark S. Ouellette, IAFF Eastern Trustee, lost his courageous battle with cancer Feb. 11. Ouellette served as a labor leader for more than 45 years, holding positions at the Local, state, and international level.
“Mark led by example and showed generations of fire fighters the importance of a union,” said General President Edward Kelly. “His dedication to the IAFF and commitment to our values were unwavering.”
General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma said he will remember Ouellette for his strong work ethic and his friendship.
“Brother Ouellette’s commitment to the IAFF was lifelong. As a Trustee, he worked closely with our auditors and the Office of the General Secretary-Treasurer to ensure that our members’ investment in the IAFF was safeguarded and properly managed,” said Líma. “May perpetual light always shine upon Trustee Ouellette, his family, and all of us who had the pleasure to work with him and be his friend.”
Mark led by example and showed generations of fire fighters the importance of a union. His dedication to the IAFF and commitment to our values were unwavering.
General President Edward Kelly
Ouellette joined the fire service in Hampton, New Hampshire, in 1975. Just three years later, he worked with his fellow fire fighters to organize Local 2664 and would later serve as the Local’s treasurer and president.
“He brought sound values that were beyond reproach to every position he held,” said Jed Carpentier, Local 2664 president and Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire 2nd District Vice President. “Mark fought right up to the end with a level of class, dignity, and loyalty that was admirable. It is without question that fire fighters and our society are better off because of men like Mark.”
Ouellette was passionate about helping all fire fighters and was always ready to do more. He served as president of the PFFNH from 1983 to 2002, where he fought tirelessly to improve working conditions, pay, and benefits. He also organized 19 Locals, adding hundreds of members to the state association.
“Mark served with honor, leaving a legacy of exceptional leadership. Nearly 23 years ago, he became the first to be named President Emeritus, forever securing his place in our union’s history,” said Brian Ryll, PFFNH president. “His dedication and vision shaped the PFFNH, and his friendship, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our members will always be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known him.”
Ouellette was elected IAFF Eastern Trustee in 2000, representing the Eastern United States, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean Islands. In this role, he worked with the other trustees to ensure all money and funds related to IAFF operations were properly appropriated and managed.
“Ouellette never missed a meeting, even after the cancer. If he was going through chemo, he would join virtually,” said Western Trustee Tony Mejia. “Toward the end, he told us that he wanted to make it through one more audit. He didn’t want to leave anything undone. And he didn’t. We finished this year’s audit Feb. 5.”
The IAFF and the 3rd District have lost a long-time champion and advocate. Mark was a close friend and mentor for almost 30 years. He led the PFFNH through many difficult fights before taking on the trustee position. Mark will be sorely missed by many across the IAFF, no more so than the six New England states.
3rd District Vice President Jay Colbert
Ouellette grew up in Massachusetts and later moved to New Hampshire, before retiring to Florida. Even when he was in the Sunshine State, Ouellette was quick to remind others about his New England roots.
“The IAFF and the 3rd District have lost a long-time champion and advocate,” said District Vice President Jay Colbert. “Mark was a close friend and mentor for almost 30 years. He led the PFFNH through many difficult fights before taking on the trustee position. Mark will be sorely missed by many across the IAFF, no more so than the six New England states.”
He is survived by his wife Donna, his daughter Jenna, and his extended family. He was predeceased by his son Shane.
