The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) is issuing the following statement on behalf of family members of Rob Jenner, who was killed the morning of June 6 while on his regular bike ride into work. Rob worked as the Shipper/Receiver at the CMHR; he had been at the Museum since September 2014.
“We want everyone to know Rob, not just because of how he died but because of how he lived. Rob was a loving and caring husband, father, stepfather, grandpa, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was an artist and writer; his home was filled with art. He was also an incredible chef – his family and friends looked forward to the meals he prepared for them with love.
Rob was friendly, blunt and also very kind. He had a soft spot for people and was quick to connect with everyone. He was a person who treated everyone he knew with respect and dignity. Rob didn’t treat people differently based on their job or the colour of their skin or who they loved. He was just Rob, a wonderful man, who loved to travel and who was looking forward to retirement.
Rob was taken from us, from all of us who loved him, too soon. Rob was killed cycling to work, something he loved to do. He knew cycling in this city could be dangerous but he loved it – he always left early, he was very safety conscious. He always cycled in his bright yellow safety gear, wore a helmet that had flashing lights and followed all the proper safety measures while on the road. The City needs to do more for safer roads for cyclists and we would ask every driver in Winnipeg reading this to think of Rob and take extra care and patience while passing cyclists. We don’t want another family to experience this grief.
Rob’s wife Wendy Van Loon adds: ‘He was my everything. And I know I was his.’ “
At this time, Rob’s family will not be making any further public statements. They extend their appreciation to the many friends and colleagues who have reached out to offer support. A private funeral will be held in accordance with Rob’s wishes, with a celebration of life to follow. The attached photos were provided by his family. In the first photo, Rob and Wendy are pictured posing at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights; the second photo is Rob posing while on vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, a place he loved.
