Crystal Charlene Yvonne Chercoe

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Crystal Charlene Yvonne Kalaitzakis (nee Chercoe), a dedicated daughter, sister, friend, public servant, community leader, and advocate for youth and social innovation.

Crystal was born in a small Manitoba town to entrepreneurial parents and naturally followed in their footsteps after earning her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Winnipeg. From the very beginning, it was clear she was a born leader-giving instructions to her brothers and charming her mother and father.

After graduating, Crystal started her award winnipeg career in the late 1990’s pioneering internet connectivity and access to technology for rural and remote communities across Manitoba. She played a key role in creating employment opportunities for youth by providing digital literacy training, enabling community organizations to effectively utilize computers and the internet for education, workforce development, economic growth, and social inclusion. Subsequently, she founded Manitoba First Nations SchoolNet, a transformative initiative that significantly improved connectivity, digital skills, and employment prospects within Manitoba’s First Nations communities.

Crystal’s career was distinguished by a deep commitment to public service and community development. She held leadership roles in the Government of Manitoba, including as Director of Program and Policy Services at Skills and Employment Partnerships, and Director, Winnipeg Services, Employment Manitoba. Her work with the Province focused on advancing inclusive employment and shaping progressive workforce and social policies.

In addition to her government service, Crystal founded AstroLab Synergies (Chief Impact Officer), championing innovative approaches to workforce development and social entrepreneurship. Crystal also contributes to organizations like The Momentum Centre, where she helped SMEs adopt ecommerce and digital marketing as well as championed professional development for young Manitobans.

Crystal will be remembered for her warmth, visionary leadership, and tireless dedication-leaving behind a legacy defined by compassion, meaningful collaboration, and lasting change. Her work touched countless lives, and her memory will continue to inspire those committed to building a more equitable and vibrant Manitoba.

Crystal will be missed by everyone she came in contact with and is preceded by the love of her life, her furry companion, Telly. Crystal is survived by her loving parents Linda and Taras (Terry), brothers Jayson (Karen) and Jordan, Aunts Donna and Carole, Uncle Ron (Heather) and numerous cousins and friends. Formal titles weren’t important in the Chercoe family. Whether you were a blood relative, a trusted neighbor, or a close friend, you were considered family.

A celebration of Crystal’s life will be held on Monday, October 27, at 2:00 p.m. at Sobering Funeral Chapel, 1035 Park Avenue E., Beausejour. Memorial donations in Crystal’s honor may be made a mental health program of your choice.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com