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A worker seriously injured at the Agrium potash mine near Vanscoy, Sask. has died.
The man, identified as 29-year-old Chad Wiklun, was pinned by two pieces of machinery around 2:45 a.m. Monday.
He was taken to a Saskatoon hospital, about a 30-kilometre drive northeast of the mine, in critical condition and put on life support.
Wiklun died in hospital overnight Wednesday.
The president of the United Steelworkers Union local 7552, Darrin Kruger, issued a statement Thursday.
“After a brief fight, surrounded by family and friends, Chad succumbed to injuries that were too great for even him to fight,” the statement read.
Wiklun leaves behind his partner of 13 years, Celina, and two daughters – seven-year-old Casey and six-year-old Carsyn.
The statement goes on to say the United Steelworkers Union is establishing a trust fund for the two girls, and Agrium has agreed to match all employee donations raised for this fund.
Details on how to donate to the trust will be released in the coming days.
On Tuesday, Wiklun’s younger sister, Caitlin, created a GoFundMe page to help support his family; it quickly surpassed its goal of $10,000.
“When one worker falls, we fall together; which is why I am doing this for Chad’s family,” a post on the page read.
Occupational Health and Safety were on site following the incident, and continue to investigate the cause.
Full statement on behalf of family
It is with profound sadness that we wish to announce the passing of our beloved brother, colleague and friend. Chad was involved in a tragic workplace accident in the early morning hours of August 8, 2016. After a brief fight, surrounded by family and friends, Chad succumbed to injuries that were too great for even him to fight.
He began his career underground at Agrium in November 2010, where he remained at his passing. Chad leaves behind his beloved partner of 13 years, Celina and their beautiful girls, Casey (7) and Carsyn (6). A complete obituary and funeral arrangements will be announced in the days to come.
United Steelworkers, Local 7552 is establishing a trust fund for his daughters Casey & Carsyn. Agrium has agreed to match all employee donations raised for this fund. Details on how to donate to this Trust will be released in the very near future.