Stephen “Steve” Paul Zago, a beloved pilot, entrepreneur and community figure known for his infectious personality and passion for aviation, died on October 9, 2026, when a small plane crashed outside Fergus, Ontario. He was 48.
Zago’s sudden death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from family members, friends, aviation colleagues and local business owners who remember him as a larger-than-life personality who could turn a brief encounter into a lasting friendship.
Born on September 22, 1978, in Guelph, Ontario, Zago built a life around flying, entrepreneurship and community involvement. He was also a devoted husband, father figure, grandfather and friend whose influence extended well beyond the aviation industry.
The crash also claimed the life of fellow pilot Joe Stubbs. The circumstances surrounding the accident were under investigation by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
A Lifelong Passion for Aviation
Zago’s love of flying began when he was eight years old, after his father took him and his sister, Kate, to an aviation event at Guelph Airport. During the visit, he experienced the thrill of flying and quickly developed a passion that would shape his future.
He pursued flight training in Kitchener before beginning a career that took him across Canada and beyond. His professional experience included flying for Air Tindi in Yellowknife, operating Twin Otters in the Maldives, working with the Ontario government’s corporate aviation service, and serving with Walsten Air, North Cariboo and Air Canada Jazz.
In 2012, Zago returned to Guelph and joined Air Transat. Four years later, he became a captain, earning recognition among colleagues for his professionalism and enthusiasm for aviation.
His interests extended beyond commercial flying. He was passionate about aircraft restoration and aviation history and was involved with the Waterloo Warbirds, an organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing historic aircraft.
For Zago, flying was more than a career. It was a lifelong interest that connected him with friends, colleagues and fellow aviation enthusiasts.
Building a Business From a Pandemic Setback
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the aviation industry in 2020, Zago and his close friend and fellow pilot Adam Wright found an opportunity to pursue a different venture.
Together, they founded Lost Aviator Coffee Company, turning their shared interests and entrepreneurial energy into a coffee-roasting business and café in Guelph.
The company became an important part of Zago’s life, combining his love of coffee with his enthusiasm for connecting people. Its café on York Road helped establish a gathering place for residents, visitors and members of the aviation community.
Wright later recalled how naturally Zago connected with people, often building partnerships and friendships simply by striking up conversations. Their business relationship was also marked by humour, creativity and a determination to make the work enjoyable.
For Zago, the café represented more than a business. It was another way to bring people together and contribute to the community he loved.
A Devoted Husband and Family Man
Away from the cockpit and the café, Zago cherished his family.
He was born to Gail Bartlett and Paul Zago and grew up in Guelph’s Ward neighbourhood, an area that remained especially meaningful to him throughout his life. He also took pride in his Italian heritage and maintained close ties with his extended family.
In 2015, he married Holly in Las Vegas in a ceremony officiated by an Elvis impersonator, reflecting the humour and unconventional spirit that friends associated with him.
Zago embraced his role as stepfather to Daniel and was delighted to become a grandfather to Rowan, whom he affectionately called his grandson.
Family members and friends remembered him as a man who valued shared experiences, whether celebrating special occasions, telling stories about his latest adventures or simply spending time with those he loved.
His death has left a profound void among the people who were part of his personal and professional lives.
Friends Remember His Generosity and Humour
Tributes following Zago’s death highlighted the warmth, humour and generosity that defined his relationships.
Wright described his longtime friend as a larger-than-life character whose absence would be deeply felt. The pair had met in 2005 while working for a charter company in Calgary and remained close through career changes, travels and the creation of their coffee business.
Other colleagues remembered Zago as an accomplished pilot who was willing to help others advance their aviation careers. Many described him as approachable, funny and genuinely interested in the people he encountered.
Local businesses also paid tribute, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the community and his willingness to participate in collaborations that brought people together.
For those who knew him, Zago’s legacy was not limited to his achievements as a pilot or entrepreneur. It was also reflected in the friendships he formed, the encouragement he offered and the happiness he brought into everyday encounters.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of life was scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 234 in Guelph. A livestream was also planned for those unable to attend in person.
In lieu of donations to a specific charity, Zago’s family encouraged people to support local businesses in his memory, a gesture that reflected his commitment to community life.
As family, friends and colleagues gather to remember him, Zago is being celebrated as a man who pursued his passions wholeheartedly, built meaningful relationships and left a lasting impression on the people around him.
His life connected aviation, entrepreneurship and community in ways that reflected his energetic personality and generous spirit. Though his death has brought profound sadness to those who loved him, the memories he created and the friendships he nurtured will remain an enduring part of his legacy.
Steve Zago is remembered as a devoted family man, an accomplished pilot and a friend whose enthusiasm for life made him unforgettable.
