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Ford Statement on Don Ephlin's Passing

4 June 2000

Donald Ephlin, a Retired UAW Vice President who was the Director of the Union's
National Ford Department From 1980 to 1983, Died Friday

Ford Motor Company today issued the following statement, attributable to 
Vice Chairman Pete Pestillo:

    "The Ford Motor Company family is saddened by the news of Don Ephlin's
death today.  Don was a pioneer in the auto industry, a union leader who
stepped up to the challenges that all of us faced during the severe recession
of the early 1980s.  His leadership in Employee Involvement at Ford was
instrumental to its success.

    "Don was unique -- a tough and eloquent negotiator and a warm, witty and
caring person.  Our sympathy goes out to his family.  Don made Ford a better
place for everyone and the contributions he made will continue to benefit Ford
and its people."