Barry Jorgenson
December 8, 1942 – December 3, 2024
“Once you have tasted flight, you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” Anon.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Barry Jorgenson on December 3, 2024, at the Wiigwas Elder Care home in Kenora, just days before his 82nd birthday.
Barry is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gail; his daughter, Jana (Neil) Coats; and his three grandchildren, Cameron, Celtie, and Madison, all of Thunder Bay.
Born and raised in Kenora, Barry spent his early years in the Rideout area, where he developed a deep and lasting love for the outdoors through hunting, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Winnipeg River and the Lake of the Woods. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Civil Engineering degree in 1966, and although he worked as a freelance engineer throughout his life, Barry pursued his true passion—flying. He chose a career as a bush pilot, dedicating his life to navigating the skies and exploring the pristine beaches and trout lakes of Northwestern Ontario. He spent many wonderful years flying for the Osborn Island family from Texas.
Barry was a builder at heart, often working with his hands to construct houses and take on projects that showcased his skill and creativity. He also enjoyed home brewing and took great pride in crafting his own beer, always looking forward to sharing his latest creation.
He had a deep appreciation for animals and a special fondness for his dogs, who brought him great joy throughout his life. Barry’s adventurous spirit and dedication to the things he loved will be fondly remembered by those who knew him.
The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Wiigwas Elder Care for their kindness and compassion, especially during Barry’s final days. A special thank you to Auntie Karen for visiting Barry and keeping him company over the years.
‘Keep the blue side up, Barry!’
A celebration of his life will take place on the Winnipeg River at a later date.
Barry’s love of flying and his passion for the skies were defining aspects of his life. In his honor, we share this poem, which beautifully captures the wonder and freedom he experienced during his many years as a pilot.
High Flight
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds—and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.
Up, up the long, delirious burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace,
Where never lark or even eagle flew—
And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.
by John Gillespie Magee Jr.