A pilot and entrepreneur from Guelph is being remembered by the community, all after a plane crash in Fergus that led to the death of two people.
Steve Zago, the co-founder and co-owner of Lost Aviator Coffee Co., lost his life Friday after his plane crashed into a field, with a post outside the company’s location on York Road saying he “died suddenly in a flying accident doing what he loved.”
The incident itself happened Friday, Oct. 9, at around 10:15 a.m., when Wellington County OPP was called about an aircraft that had crashed into the field off Beatty Line and Wellington Road 17.
Officers said that the plane, which was carrying two people, caught fire after the initial crash and, after clearing the fire, OPP stated that “Both individuals were pronounced deceased at the scene. There are no other reported injuries.”
“Sudden and very sad news of a local entrepreneur that so many knew and loved across our city,” said Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie in a post on social media.
“Steve was so positive and instilled a mindset into his store(s) and to others that was contagious. He literally always gave to others in need and helped promote so many other businesses in Guelph.”
Zago had spent over 20 years as a pilot, joining the Canadian Armed Forces as a reservist at the age of 17, later becoming a member of the Waterloo Warbirds in 2017.
The Warbirds said they are “heartbroken to hear of the passing of our team member,” adding that he was valued in countless capacities on their team, including assisting in flight operations, participating in restoration projects, and creating the YouTube series “Stories from my logbook” that shared first-hand accounts from WWII RCAF pilots about their time in service.
“His passion for aviation shone through in everything he did, and his contributions were felt across the team, helping share the thrill of aviation and aviation history with so many,” said the Waterloo Warbirds in a post on social media.
“The Waterloo Warbirds team extends our deepest condolences to Steve’s wife Holly, his family, Lost Aviator business partner and friend Adam, their staff, and his friends and colleagues. We also share our condolences with the family and friends of the second pilot who lost their life in the accident.”
The identity of the second individual involved in the crash has not been released at this time.
“To the co-workers, family and friends, we send out prayers to you all during this time,” Guthrie said.
“Let’s all be a lot like Steve in our own lives. Caring and understanding of others, passionate about what matters and making our community better every day.”
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