Residents of Guelph, Ontario, are honoring the memory of Steve Zago, a local business owner and pilot known for his optimism and dedication to improving the community. The news of Zago’s passing was shared through a notice on the door of Lost Aviator Coffee, stating that his death occurred suddenly during a flying incident. In front of the coffee shop’s entrance, a small arrangement of flowers was placed, accompanied by a poem titled “High Flight” as a tribute to Zago. The establishment announced its temporary closure until the following day to allow staff time to process the tragic news.
The Waterloo Warbirds confirmed Zago’s passing, revealing that he was involved in a plane crash near Fergus. Additionally, the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police reported that two individuals lost their lives in a small plane crash in a field on Friday morning. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada dispatched a team of investigators to the site to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Zago had been a valued member of the Waterloo Warbirds team since 2017, contributing significantly to various initiatives within the organization. Through his involvement in flight operations and restoration projects, he enabled others to experience unique flying opportunities and played a crucial role in expanding the organization’s aircraft fleet. Zago also created the “Stories from my Logbook” series on YouTube, where he shared firsthand accounts from veteran pilots, highlighting his passion for aviation and preserving aviation history.
Recognized for his active participation in the community, Zago, along with pilot Adam Wright, co-founded Lost Aviator Coffee Co. in 2020. Mayor Cam Guthrie expressed his shock and disbelief at Zago’s passing, emphasizing his positive influence and generosity towards others. Royal City Brewing, a neighboring establishment, paid tribute to Zago, acknowledging his significant contributions to the local community and expressing gratitude for his impactful presence.
Local businesses, including Na-Ha-Thai’s Kitchen and Flow State Bike Co., extended their condolences to Zago’s loved ones and colleagues, reflecting on his unwavering support for small businesses and dedication to uplifting the Guelph community. While funeral arrangements have not been disclosed publicly, Zago’s lasting legacy as a compassionate and dedicated community member continues to resonate among those who knew him.