SHERRY ANN WILSON

SHERRY ANN WILSON 

     Sherry Ann Wilson, 73, died at the Black River Memorial Hospital Oct. 26, 2025, in her hometown of Black River Falls, WI. She was born Aug. 10, 1952, to Rachel Funmaker. She was later adopted by Earl and Margaret Wilson. 

     Sherry lived a life dedicated to giving a voice to the marginalized and advocating for equality, particularly for Native Americans and women. Sherry was not only a gifted writer but also a talented radio host and voiceover artist for the Ho-Chunk Nation. Her commitment to her roots and her people led her to co-found MIGZI Communications, a program to help support indigenous youth. Sherry was known for her independent spirit and her unique sense of humor. She was not just a journalist; she was a human rights activist whose voice resonated with many, inspiring change and fostering understanding. Just a few of the many movements Sherry participated in in creating a voice for the others included: In 1985 in Nairobi, Kenya Global Conference on Women, Lac du Flambeau in support of Treat Right and sovereignty and AIM and WAMM (Women Against Military Madness), Central American for the March for the Peace, NYC demonstrations for denouncing Columbus Day, Support for Political Prisoners at home and abroad, Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp in England, 1992 Superbowl mascot protest in Minneapolis, the march in Ottawa in support of Innu/ Nitassinan and further militarization and impacts, 1990 actions in solidarity with people of Kahnewake and Kahnesetake during the siege of Oka in Minneapolis, and many conferences and meetings for WARN and INCITE! in Chicago. Whether writing or organizing or acting in solidarity, she was always concerned about human rights, especially indigenous and women’s rights and land-based struggles, whether at home or Ireland or Palestine; all were dear to her heart.

     Sherry is preceded in death by her mother, Rachel Funmaker; adopted parents Margaret and Earl Wilson; brothers Marvin and Melvin Twinn; and grandparents Harold Jones and Elenore (Whitewater) Funmaker. 

     She is survived by her brothers, Fred Youngbear and Ken Twinn, and her sisters, Sally Youngbear and Susan Twin Bear.

     A visitation for Sherry was held at the Buswell Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Oct. 29, 2025. Immediately following, burial took place at the Decorah Cemetery.

     The Buswell Funeral Home is assisting the family with final arrangements, 715-284-2231.