The Illinois Laborers & Contractors Joint Apprenticeship & Training Program mourns the loss of Ron Litherland, our prior administrator, who passed away on Saturday, October 21. Ron was not only an administrator but also a lively participant in Laborers 362, which is a testament to his unshakable dedication to the laborers’ community.

Ron was well-known for his enthusiastic involvement in a variety of community projects in his birthplace of LeRoy, Illinois. Ron stood out due to his excellent 16 years of work with the Laborers’ Training Program. But more importantly, during his time there, he helped build the program and altered the lives of other potential employees.

He was adamant that our training and apprenticeship programs had the power to impact lives since they provided the foundation for our members’ lifetime careers. Ron was a person who was utterly dedicated to encouraging career success.

He served as both a mentor and an administrator, assisting countless individuals in beginning their journey toward a better, safer future. His numerous lives he touched, the skills he developed, and the professions he assisted in founding all attest to his value. In this difficult time, we pray for Ron’s entire family, including his beloved wife Sue. We hope that the fact that Ron will have a long-lasting impact on the laborers’ community would console them.

His legacy will always be recognized, and his contribution to our combined apprenticeship and training program will endure as a lasting homage to his unwavering enthusiasm and dedication. We mourn his passing and commemorate his life as we reflect on the enduring influence he had on the Illinois Laborers community.