George "Geordie" MacDonald passed away on 5-26-24. He was 84 years of age. Brother MacDonald was a 32 year member of Local 728 after having spent the bulk of his career as a member of NABET from 1958-1992 when that union merged with IATSE. "Geordie" worked mostly as a commercial gaffer and in later years as his DP's retired or moved on, he worked as a balloon tech in the early days of that technical field. 

I regret having to report the passing of Brother Ronald “Ron” Tickle on March 4, 2024 at the age of 84. Brother Tickle was a 63-year member of Local 728 having been obligated in November 1961.

I regret having to inform the membership of the passing of Jeff “Quickdraw” McGrath on March, 19^th 2024 while in Portugal with his family. Jeff was 77 years old and a 45-year member of Local 728 since May 20^th 1978. Jeff never completely retired from active service. His expertise as a follow spot operator and moving light technician on such shows as Masked Singer, Ridiculousness, Dancing with the Stars, Jimmy Kimmel Live and his good nature allowed him to pick where and when he worked. Services were private.

Brother john Haskell age 85, passed away on February 7, 2024. Brother Haskell was a 48-year member of Local 728. He retired in early 2001 and enjoyed a 23-year retirement. During the latter part of his career he worked on “The Flintstones”, “Melrose Place”, “Diagnosis Murder”, “Clueless” and “Batman” .

I regret having to inform the membership of the passing of Brother John Haskell age 85 on February 7th, 2024. John was a 49-year member of Local 728 having been obligated in April 1974. During his long and distinguished 27 year career, he worked at many studios including Sam Goldwyn, Aaron Spelling, Disney, Fox, MGM and Warner Brothers studios.