Shortly after graduating from Downers Grove South High school, Rick married his high school sweetheart Lynn Passarelli; she currently is a Regional Sales Manager for Kellogg Corporation. They have 2 sons, Dan who is a Chicago police officer assigned to the Target Response Unit, and Nick who is currently working construction, both sons attended Illinois State University on football scholarships where they graduated. Rick enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served 2 tours of duty, in combat theater of operations Lebanon with Naval Sea Bee Battalion 10, After a 3 year enlistment and Honorable Discharge Rick started his career with Peoples Gas as a Distribution Laborer central shop. Rick transferred to the service department where he was sent to South shop as a fitter’s helper. Rick progressed through the service department as a fitter’s helper, service specialist, service specialist #2 and finally service specialist #1 where he currently holds this title. Ricks Union career started in 1997 as a reserve steward service south.
He then held the permanent title as Steward Service South, where he worked. Upon the Executive boards appointment Rick was given the title of Chief Steward. He served in this capacity until his joining the the Local 18007 Executive board as a Trustee. Rick then held the job title of assistant treasurer, during a period when the local’s treasurer was Ill. In 2003 Rick was recommended to become a national Safety trainer assigned to the UWUA safety training program in Washington DC. Rick continued in that roll until 2008 when he became the Midwest regional training coordinator for the UWUA in Washington D.C. Rick has also held the position of Vice President Local 18007, and then President Local 18007. In March 2010 Rick stepped down from the Presidency to take the job as Business manger Local 18007. March 2010 Rick was also voted to the National Executive Board Washington D.C where he currently represents Local 18007 and its 900 members. Rick is a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of the American Legion.
Questions and answers with Rick.
When you look back on your company and Union career what was your motivation to succeed?
“I believe being married at 18 years old, and having Lynn to a chance and stood by me for over 28 years.” Rick laughs.
Wow that is a long time, you were just kids?
Yes we were! Sorry where were we? Serving 2 tours in the Middle East helped me to keep busy enough to do whatever it takes to win! I’m very competitive by nature and I really hate to lose. By holding all the positions in my Union career it has prepared me to take something from everyone, I have had the privilege to work for and develop my own style to serve the membership.
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