Joseph N. Ash

Joseph N. Ash, who served as an officer of New York City Local 119/43B for more than 35 years, died at his retirement home in Florida on Aug. 12. He was 72.

Ash joined the local in 1950. According to an article in the Graphic Communicator's predecessor, the Union Tabloid, he is credited with organizing the shop where he was employed as a cutter, the J. Schultz Printing Co.

He was appointed custodian by the local in January 1959. From there he took on the job of local organizer in 1970, secretary-treasurer later that year and became president-treasurer in July 1991. He served in that position until his retirement in July 1995.

He also served on the International's Board of Electors that oversees International elections during the late 1980s and early 1990s. His successor as Local 119/43B Pres. Bernard Gilston said Ash was also an officer with the Westchester County Allied Printing Trades Council and other New York City and state printing groups.

Ash is survived by his wife, Margaret, two daughters, Eileen and Diane, and a sister, Irene.