Sheree Fertuck's murder illustrates Saskatchewan's deep-seated misogyny problem: expert
CBC
Sheree Fertuck's disappearance, the ensuing investigation and Greg Fertuck's trial are the focus of the CBC podcast The Pit. Listen to all the episodes here.
Warning: this story contains distressing details.
Greg Fertuck was the type of man who solved his problems through "intimidation, threats and violence."
Evidence at his murder trial showed he had to have his way — or else.
"When [his wife Sheree] would not comply by his own admission he went to his truck, got his rifle, shot her in the shoulder, then coldly shot her in the head. He killed her in cold blood," wrote Justice Richard Danyliuk in his trial decision.
Danyliuk found Greg guilty of first-degree murder on June 14, 2024, after a lengthy and complicated trial at Saskatoon's Court of King's Bench.
Greg was also found guilty of indecently interfering with Sheree's remains because he hid her body in a secluded area near some poplar trees after the murder. Her remains have never been found.
Justice Danyliuk wrote about how this denied Sheree's loved ones the chance to say a proper goodbye.
"Greg once said he loved Sheree. They built a life together. They had three children together. While it all fell apart, to try to solve financial and personal issues through the most extreme form of violence and then unthinkingly dispose of Sheree as if she was a nuisance is a form of spousal abuse. It is the highest form of such abuse."
Sheree's death was a preventable tragedy, according to Jo-Anne Dusel, a provincial expert on abuse in relationships and intimate partner homicide.
Other innocent women will suffer the same fate unless changes are made, Dusel said.
Sheree was 51 when Greg killed her. She has been described as a tough woman and devoted mother of three who loved her dog, her family and her work — hauling crushed rock from a rural gravel pit near Kenaston, Sask.
"She was an absolutely 100 per cent loyal friend. She would do anything for you if it was within her power to do. She was so full of life and fun to be around," said her friend, Heather Mitchell.
"People just need to understand that this is just so unfair what happened to her. It was just absolutely devastating."
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WARNING: This article may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by it.