Born in Bassano, Alberta in 1942, Phyllis Tinney moved to Saskatchewan in 1965, settling near Tompkins. She developed a unique program for teaching swimming to people inhibited by fear, handicap, or disability. Indeed, her greatest achievements were made when instructing disabled swimmers. A tireless volunteer, Tinney served as president of the local branch of the Canadian Red Cross and examiner for the Royal Life Saving Society. She also founded Wheelchair Sports in North Battleford. In 1986, Tinney received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit.
Canadian Plains Research Center