Beloved Union Worker Joe Cunningham Tragically Killed in Sherwin-Williams Project Accident
With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we mourn the sudden and tragic loss of Joe Cunningham, a cherished member of Laborers Local 310, who lost his life early this morning in a devastating workplace accident at the Sherwin-Williams project site. The incident has sent shockwaves through the labor community, leaving colleagues, friends, and loved ones grappling with an overwhelming sense of grief and disbelief.
Joe Cunningham was more than just a skilled tradesman — he was a pillar of dedication, humility, and solidarity within Local 310. Known for his strong work ethic, steady presence, and deep commitment to safety and brotherhood on the job, Joe represented everything honorable about the labor movement. His untimely passing has left an unfillable void, not only on the job site but in the hearts of all who knew and respected him.
Details surrounding the accident are still under investigation, and authorities are working diligently to understand exactly what occurred. What remains painfully clear, however, is that a devoted worker left home this morning expecting to return — only never to come back. It is a stark reminder of the dangers faced daily by those in construction and trades professions, and of the urgent need to constantly uphold and improve safety protocols on all job sites.
Joe was more than a worker — he was a husband, a father, a friend, a brother, and a mentor. Those who worked beside him remember his steady hand, his warm humor, his willingness to help the newer guys, and his unwavering pride in the union. Whether he was pouring concrete in the dead of winter or pushing through summer heat, Joe never shied away from hard work, believing deeply in the dignity of labor and the importance of building a better future for the generations after him.
Laborers Local 310 released a statement expressing their grief, saying in part:
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of our brother Joe Cunningham. He was the embodiment of union strength, a true tradesman who gave his all to every task. Joe’s loss is not only ours — it is felt across the labor community and beyond. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with his family.”
The Sherwin-Williams project, a major construction endeavor in the area, has temporarily ceased operations out of respect for Joe and in acknowledgment of the gravity of the incident. Union representatives, grief counselors, and safety investigators have been on-site supporting workers and conducting preliminary reviews.
In the coming days, there will be vigils and memorials organized to honor Joe’s life and legacy. His fellow members of Local 310 are already rallying together to support his family, just as Joe would have done for any of them.
There are truly no words powerful enough to express the heartbreak and pain that so many feel in this moment. But through the tears and the silence, what remains clear is the depth of love and respect for a man who gave so much — not for recognition, but because it was the right thing to do.
Joe Cunningham’s legacy will live on in the foundations he helped build, the people he inspired, and the enduring brotherhood of Laborers Local 310. He was, and will always be, one of the best among us.
May he rest in eternal peace.