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GEORGE JOHN PORAYKO
Born: Jun 03, 1934
Date of Passing: Nov 07, 2020
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GEORGE JOHN PORAYKO
June 3, 1934 – November 7, 2020
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Audrey. He is also survived by his children, Terry (Ginette), Rick (Maria) and Patti (Donald); grandchildren, Edward, Victoria, Sophie, David, Steven and Katie. He is also survived by his sister, Debby (Murray) and brother, Jerry (Bonnie). George was predeceased by his parents, John Porayko and Anne Domino.
George was born in Teulon, Manitoba, and was raised on the homestead farm. In May 1959, George and Audrey met in Regina, Saskatchewan. George often said that was the night he "met the end of his single days sitting across the room". He was indeed correct, as George and Audrey were married on March 25, 1960. They enjoyed travelling (especially in their motorhome) all over Canada, the United States and Europe.
George had an interest in flying from an early age. He had earned his private pilot license before joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1958, where he would eventually be piloting the CF-101 Voodoo, a supersonic fighter/interceptor, during the height of the Cold War. One of his most prized possessions was his diploma identifying him as a member of the Thousand Mile Per Hour Club.
After the Air Force, he would begin his second career as an air traffic controller at St. Andrews Airport. For 29 years, his voice was heard by thousands of pilots using the airspace around St. Andrews. He also taught hundreds of aspiring pilots at the various training centers on the airport. A few years ago, the Board of Directors of the airport bestowed a great honor on him by officially renaming Control Tower Road to George Porayko Way.
In 1988, George fulfilled a life-long dream of owning his own aircraft. He prepared a beautiful grass strip and a hangar on his property, and spent many happy hours of flying and tinkering with his toys.
The family would like to thank the staff at Red River Place Personal Care Home and all George's doctors. We appreciate the kind and compassionate care you provided to George over the past few years.
Due to current health restrictions, a private service was held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at St. Michaels Cemetery in Pleasant Home, Manitoba. A memorial service is being planned for when restrictions are relaxed and circumstances permit.
Flowers are gratefully declined. If friends so desire, contributions may be made in George's memory to Diabetes Canada, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba or a charity of one's choice.
"Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward. For there you have been, and there you will always long to return."
– Leonardo da Vinci
Condolences may be left on his tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com
Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk
in care of arrangements.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 14, 2020
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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George was many things for many people. For me, a true and loyal friend, always willing to lend a hand. He was the one who taught me about building, and doing the job the right way. George also wowed me over the years with his incredible mechanical skills. Such a good man in so many ways. I consider myself lucky to have been his friend. My heart goes out to Audrey and family. - Posted by: Shawn Kennedy (Friend/Co-Worker) on: Nov 17, 2020
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High above Betelgeuse, they say Beyond Orion’s questing eyes Ten million star-strewn years away There hangs a pilots’ paradise. The torch is passed. Rest in peace, George; and save room at the bar for the rest of us. Respectfully, Haggis. - Posted by: “Haggis” Mackay (414 AW(F) Sqn., North Bay 1958-61) on: Nov 16, 2020
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Dear Audry: I was very sorry to hear of Georges passing. It was even harder to hear given our close friendship which all began some 60 years ago when George and I first "crewed up" at the CF-100 OTU in Cold Lake in Dec. 1959. I subsequently shared a cockpit with him for more than 450 flying hours and never had reason to regret that decision. George was a first class pilot and an outstanding human being. Although our paths diverged over the years we never lost contact. He will be sorely missed. And so my dear, from Noreen and I to you and your family, our deepest condolences. We are holding you in our thoughts and prayers at this time of sorrow. God bless. Ross & Noreen - Posted by: Ross Brewer (fellow flyer & friend) on: Nov 15, 2020
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I worked with George for many years and there was never a moment that I did not enjoy his presence and comradeship. He taught everyone who worked with him a lot about our job, aviation in general and about the importance of enjoying life.He was a friend I dearly missed seeing after my retirement. All of our best to Audrey and family at this time. Suzanne and I grieve along with you. Be well. - Posted by: Jack A Stewart (friend) on: Nov 14, 2020
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Audrey and family, Julie and I were deeply saddened to hear of George‘s recent passing and send you our sincere condolences. Memories of times past in North Bay and on squadron together are foremost in my mind. He was a good man and friend and will be missed. Darryl Danner - Posted by: Darryl Danner (Squadron Mate and old Friend) on: Nov 14, 2020