The CFMEU pays tribute to Harry Karslake, who died, aged 88, on December 26, 2011. The Union sends sincere condolences to his life’s partner Betty, their children and grandchildren and many friends.

Harry was a true stalwart of the Victorian BLF and the Labour Movement, whose life-long service to working people included struggles against asbestos and organising practical support for people with mental health problems.  

The Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Henry George (Harry) Karslake will be held at the Malvern Valley Golf Course, Golfers Drive, East Malvern on Thursday, January 19, 2012, commencing at 10.30am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eastern Regional Mental Health Association via www.ermha.org/.

ERMHA acknowledges that in his 23 years’as president of that Association: “Harry's determination and commitment to social justice shaped services in the community for people affected by mental illness and their carers in the Dandenong region”.

Harry worked for many years in the construction industry and became an organiser for the BLF in the LaTrobe Valley, where he served until his retirement.

He was a ‘Darwin Defender’ during the Second World War (from 1942-1945) and joined the Communist Party of Australia after being discharged from the army at the end of the war.

Harry Karslake enriched lives with wit, wisdom and laughter. The CFMEU hopes his memory will help educate and reinforce the beliefs that made him and fuel our movement in its role as educator and defender of working people. Dare to struggle, dare to win.

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