Winnipeg cyclist killed in hit-and-run was a loving family man who took safety precautions, family says

Posted on June 10, 2024 by Peggy

A 61-year-old cyclist was on his way to work at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights when he was killed in a hit-and-run last week, says his family says, who are urging the city to make roads safer for cyclists.

Rob Jenner was rushed to hospital in critical condition after he was hit by a vehicle at Wellington Crescent and Cockburn Street on Thursday morning. He later died from his injuries.

Jenner’s family identified him in a statement released Monday by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, where he worked as a shipper and receiver for a decade.

“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,” the statement says.

“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.”

Jenner always cycled in bright yellow safety gear and a helmet with flashing lights, the statement says.

“He knew cycling in this city could be dangerous but he loved it — he always left early, he was very safety conscious.”

Jenner’s family says the city needs to do more to make roads safer for cyclists, and asks all Winnipeg drivers to be patient while passing cyclists and to think of Rob.

“We don’t want another family to experience this grief.”

Jenner will be remembered in a private funeral and celebration of life, the family statement says.

“He was my everything. And I know I was his,” Wendy Van Loon, Jenner’s wife, said in the statement.

People standing on a street, many besides bikes. Some are holding signs. — Protesters block off Wellington Crescent on Friday afternoon. (Rosanna Hempel/CBC)

Beckham Keneth Severight, 19, was arrested in connection with Jenner’s death, Winnipeg police said Friday. He was charged with dangerous driving causing death and failing to stop at the scene.

On Friday, over 100 Winnipeggers blocked off part of Wellington for a sit-in to demand better safety conditions for cyclists.