GEORGE JOHN PORAYKO

June 3, 1934 – November 7, 2020

Peacefully, George Porayko passed away at Red River Place Personal Care Home in Selkirk, Manitoba, in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, 2020, at the age of 86 years. 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 will be 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