ctvwinnipeg.ca
Marj Heinrichs, a mother of five and an accomplished writer and photographer from Rosenort, was killed in the collision near Morris, on Tuesday afternoon.
Heinrichs had a passion for aboriginal culture and she was on her way to a traditional sweat ceremony in Roseau River when the collision occurred. She was driving a Chevy Impala, crossing the intersection of Highway 23 and Highway 200 when her car was broadsided by a Chevy Avalanche.
A roadside memorial has been set up at the site of the crash.
Heinrichs’ friend, Jo Redsky, came to pay her respects on Wednesday.
“Our family is really going to miss her, we are really going to miss her,” she said.
For the Heinrichs family, the loss is especially hard because Marj lost her son Thomas 16-years ago in another car crash.
The people in the Chevy Avalanche survived the crash, but were taken to hospital. They are from Steinbach and were on their way home from a trip to the United States, said a family member.
One of the occupants of the Avalanche was able to speak with police and tell them what happened.
Alcohol and speed are not considered factors in the crash and all of the people involved were wearing seatbelts, officers said.
The intersection, where there is a two-way stop, is known to be dangerous. Winnipeg teacher George Forsyth was killed in a crash there in June.
Reeve of the RM of De Salaberry Ron Musick said that something needs to be done about the intersection.
“Maybe a bigger sign,” he suggested. “I think the ideal thing would be to have a flashing light.”
Officials with the province said it is up to collision analysts from the RCMP to raise concerns about traffic controls.
Our deepest sympathies to the Reimer and Heinrichs families. I am Marj’s cousin. Although we haven’t seen each other in many years I will always treasure the wonderful times we shared as Kehler cousins. Marj’s was a treasured gift to her family and to everyone whose life she touched. Even though we are unable to attend her service please know our thoughts are with you at this time.
Marj, what a way to leave this world so sudden. The best part is that you had a passion for our Aboriginal Culture and us as a People, and I honor you for this in so many ways.
I know the Creator had our paths cross and it was through you that I became proud to be of being brown skinned and an “indian.” You will never know how deep that unconditional love and acceptance has helped me all these years.
In return and in your honor, I will keep working with “My” People, especially the Youth.
Safe Journey to the Spirit World My Dear Friend and Sister.
My heartful prayers, tears and thoughts are with you all during this tragic loss of your precious Marj . She surely was a talented and much loved daughter and wife and mother …