Eddy Pena started his career with Local 5 Los Angeles and the HFIAW when he joined the union on July 4, 1988. After joining, Local 5 member Curtis Gardner offered him a job doing firestop at the company where Curtis worked as a foreman.
"This would become a lifelong friendship and change Eddy's life forever," Local 5 Business Manager Michael Patterson said.
Pena worked in the firestop industry at Local 5 for over 20 years going from Tech 1 to foreman, general foreman and eventually becoming firestop Superintendent for more than one of our contractors, according to Patterson.
After becoming an apprentice in 2007, Pena further expanded his skills and knowledge beyond firestopping to all facets of mechanical insulation work, and according to Patterson, he "excelled at anything he put his mind to."
In recent years, Pena has held several union positions, including trustee, Executive board member, delegate and in 2013, Business Agent. In each role, he brought a passion and strong work ethic to help the Local and members succeed.
He was the first member of Local 5 to start as a firestopper and become an agent.
"Eddy was known for going the extra mile for the members he represented, no matter the issue," Patterson said.
Local 5 Business Agent Fredi Flores expressed his appreciation for everything Eddy has provided him and Local 5.
"Thank you, Eddy, for your dedication and commitment to Local 5 and the HFIAW," he said. "Your legacy will continue to shape the future of our Union, and your contributions will never be forgotten. Enjoy your retirement to the fullest!"
Pena says as he embarks on this new chapter in his life he plans to take advantage of many of the simple pleasures he didn't have time to enjoy during his career.
"I am looking forward to sleeping in," he said. "Except for the days when I get to go fishing, a longtime passion of mine."
Patterson believes there are plenty of Local 5 members who are better for having worked with Eddy.
"The love of the outdoors and moving closer to his family in South Dakota is why he retired," Patterson said. "I know people retire and move on to different things, but people like Eddy and his love for Local 5 and all of us will be hard to replace. Enjoy doing what you love Eddy, you have earned it."
The HFIAW sends its best wishes to Brother Pena, hoping he enjoys a retirement filled with joy and relaxation.