Cherilyn Wilson (Chair)

Cherilyn (Cheri) Wilson retired from teaching in 2023 after 34 years as an educator. She taught in Norway House and Winnipeg. She has lived in and enjoyed the lifestyles offered from a range of MB communities, including Cranberry Portage, Minnedosa, Sky Lake (farm), Gimli, Winnipeg, Grand Rapids, Norway House, and Grande Pointe. Long walks and being around nature has always been a prime stress reliever. Cheri developed a close relationship with Tyler Atkinson (former board member) and his family when Tyler was 9 years old. Tyler was an exceptional human being, whose sense of humour, positive attitude and ability to embrace all that life could offer quickly led to his entering the hearts of her and her family. Tyler gradually lost his mobility due to Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy. He began using an electric wheelchair when he was 10, and Cheri‘s interest in accessibility was naturally heightened. Tyler and Cheri shared a love of exploring communities and of nature and spent countless hours together doing so. On July 1, 2015, Cheri’s niece was travelling home on her bike, crossing Fermor Ave (without a countdown signal). She had almost made it across, when she was hit by a car travelling 70 km/hr. Her niece survived, but suffered severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. Like most people, the safety and accessibility of active transportation routes, be it sidewalks, trails, or road infrastructure has a significant impact on her and her loved ones quality of life. At first Cheri supported Tyler, as a Winnipeg Trails Board member, then was invited to be a member herself, and was voted Chair in 2023. Tyler passed away in November, 2022, and is missed by all who knew and loved him. Although Tyler’s absence is deeply felt, Cheri has continued to find being a part of the Winnipeg Trails Association a rewarding experience. She is especially impressed with the  amazing, innovative projects with which these qualified and committed individuals of the Winnipeg Trails Association are involved.