Known as a scrappy fighter for workers’ rights, Seth Rosen, 55, vice president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) labor union, died Friday, July 27, in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, according to the Communications Workers of America.
Rosen, of Westlake, and his wife Kathi, were in the water when the accident occurred around 4:25 p.m. He was swept away by powerful waves and an undertow. He had just finished a phone call in which he finalized a contract between CWA and AT&T. The contract affected 15,000 CWA members.
Rosen was the leader for 75,000 members in CWA District 4, comprised of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. He kept his office in Rocky River.
Rosen led all "bargaining, organizing, and political action," for CWA in those states, said Amy Hanauer from Policy Matters Ohio.
"Seth was a giant in our movement, the deeply loved vice-president of District 4, for the last seven years, a member there for 30 or more years," wrote Larry Cohen, CWA President, in a letter to members.
Park Service Ranger Sam Salter said the accident occurred at Ramp 59 at the north end of Ocracoke. A 911 call brought the Park Service, Ocracoke lifeguards, the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department, Hyde County Emergency Medical Services and the Sherriff’s office to the scene about a quarter mile north from where he disappeared.
After CPR failed when he was brought to shore, life support procedures were begun when the ambulance arrived. He died at Ocracoke Health Center.
The union leader loved music according to friends. He taught mandolin for many years. The Sethro Quartet was one of his numerous bands.
Rosen is survived by his wife and two children, Amanda and Josh.
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