Terrence P. “Terry” Fitzmaurice, a respected Chicago labor leader and devoted advocate for working men and women, passed away on March 18, 2026, at the age of 70.
Born on May 31, 1955, Fitzmaurice dedicated his life to the painting trade and to organized labor. He began his career in 1978 when he was initiated into Local Union 194 after entering an apprenticeship with Ruffalo Painting while attending Washburne Trade School. He graduated in 1981, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to his craft and to union service.
In 1982, he joined the City of Chicago as a painter at O’Hare International Airport, where he rose through the ranks to become a foreman. At the same time, he became deeply involved in union leadership within Local 194, serving in numerous roles including Conductor, Trustee, Vice President, and President, earning the respect of his peers for his dedication and leadership.
In 1989, Fitzmaurice was appointed Business Representative for Painters District Council 14, where he worked tirelessly on behalf of union members—securing employment opportunities, resolving disputes with contractors, and protecting fair wages and benefits. His commitment and effectiveness led to his appointment as Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer in 2005.
During his tenure leading District Council 14, Fitzmaurice played a pivotal role in strengthening the union. He negotiated collective bargaining agreements, helped lower retirement age requirements for members, and introduced initiatives such as union newsletters and safety recognition programs. He was also a strong proponent of community engagement, encouraging members to participate in charitable and civic efforts throughout the Chicago area.
Beyond his work with District Council 14, Fitzmaurice served as a trustee for the Chicago Building Trades, a member of the Chicago Federation of Labor Executive Board, and a trustee of the Painters and Decorators Welfare and Pension Fund. He also contributed to public policy, playing a role in the development of Illinois Senate Bill 1281, which established statewide corrosion prevention standards.
Fitzmaurice’s legacy is one of steadfast leadership, advocacy, and service. Upon his retirement, he was honored by the Illinois General Assembly in recognition of his lasting contributions to the labor movement and to the lives of countless union members and their families.
He is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but for his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of working people across the Chicago region.
Please keep Terry and his family in your prayers. Painters District Council 14 extends its deepest sympathies to the Fitzmaurice family.
SAVE THE DATE
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, homeowners in Chicago's Austin Community and West Suburban Maywood, IL area will benefit from National Rebuilding Day.
The meeting place for both locations:
TBD (more details to follow)
When:
7:00 AM
For more information on volunteering, call the DC14 office 312-421-0046 or contact your business agent, field representative or organizer.
Brothers and Sisters,
This union was not built by silence, comfort, or people looking the other way. It was built by working men and women who understood that solidarity is not just a word—it is a responsibility. When we allow division, intimidation, or disrespect to take root among us, we weaken everything generations before us fought to build. There is nothing neutral about standing by while a brother or sister is attacked, harassed, or pushed aside. Inaction is a choice, and complacency is complicity.
We are at a moment where we must decide who we are and what we stand for. This Council will not tolerate behavior that fractures our ranks, poisons our jobsites, or drives members away from participation in their own union. We either live our Mission and Values every day, or we surrender them. There is no middle ground.
One Union means all of us. That principle is not optional, and it is not situational. It is the foundation of Painters District Council #14 and the standard by which all members will adhere to.
Painters District Council #14 is issuing this Zero-Tolerance Policy to make our expectations absolutely clear.
Harassment, intimidation, threats, bullying, verbal abuse, and divisive conduct toward members will union not be tolerated — period. This includes behavior on the jobsite, in union halls, at meetings, during union activities, and on social media.
Any member who intimidates, fights with, insults, berates, or targets another member—especially members who are officers and delegates who are active in their local unions, committees, or District Council #14—is acting in direct violation of our Mission and Values and undermining the strength of our union.
This includes, but is not limited to:
Political affiliation, personal beliefs, or opinions do not excuse this behavior.
Your obligation as a member of Painters District Council #14 is first to your union brothers and sisters.
The treatment of apprentices is not negotiable.
Apprentices are to be mentored, trained, supported, and encouraged. Any journeyman who discourages apprentices from learning the trade, attending training, participating in meetings, or becoming involved in their union is acting against the future of our crafts and this Council.
Crushing the spirit of an apprentice is not a sign of power or strength—it is failure. Apprentices are our future workforce, future leaders, and the key to maintaining strong benefits, strong funds, and secure retirements for all members.
Our Mission is to better the lives of each and every member by being the strongest and most powerful voice in our industries.
Our Values are clear:
There is no place in Painters District Council #14 for behavior that contradicts these principles.
This is not symbolic language. Violations of this policy will be taken seriously and addressed. Conduct that threatens solidarity, safety, or the well-being of members will be investigated and acted upon through appropriate union processes.
I have been in this union for 38 years, and I can say this without hesitation: I have never heard so much hate directed at union brothers and sisters from within our own ranks. That is not who we are. That is not what built this union. And that is not what will sustain it.
So here is where I stand.
If you are experiencing this kind of behavior—on the job, in the hall, or online—or if you simply want to have an honest conversation about what we are doing at the District Council, call me directly.
My cell number is 708-710-8590.
We can meet face to face, or we can talk on the phone.
ONE UNION. ONE FAMILY. ONE FIGHT.
In Solidarity,
Joseph Rinehart
Business Manager / Secretary-Treasurer
Painters District Council #14
ONLY 36 TABLES AVAILABLE
$25 PER PERSON | $250 PER TABLE OF 10
EVENT IS BYOB/BRING YOUR OWN FOOD FOR YOUR TABLE
Chicago’s hotel industry is more than just tourism—it’s a pathway to strong careers for our members. Business Manager Joe Rinehart highlights the essential work of our painters and tradespeople in a new feature by Crain’s Content Studio.
Check out the full article, "Inside Chicago's hotel career pipeline, where opportunity runs deep," to see how PDC14 is making an impact.
Read More
Read More
