August 24, 2023 – The body of Denny Pechacek was recovered from Lake Superior off the shore of Hovland, MN. Extensive search efforts had taken place after he was reported missing while flying his ultralight craft on August 18, 2023.

Land, air, and water searches were conducted using personnel from: Cook County Search and Rescue, Hovland Fire Department, Colvill Fire Department, U.S. Air Force Search and Rescue, Civil Air Patrol, Customs and Border Protection U.S. Border Patrol, Federal Aviation Administration, Lake County Rescue, Minnesota State Patrol, Northstar Search and Rescue, U.S. Coast Guard, St Louis Co Rescue Squad, and many civilian volunteers.

“This is not the outcome that we wanted, and our thoughts and prayers go to Denny’s family and friends. We are so very fortunate that we live in a community where people will drop what they’re doing and rally to assist those in need,” stated Sheriff Pat Eliasen.

The Cook County Sheriff’s office received information in the early morning hours of August 24, 2023, that a helmet had washed up on the beach in the area of 3568 East Hwy 61. The helmet was confirmed to be that of the pilot, so search efforts were concentrated on the water and on the beach areas. Tom Crossmon of Crossmon Consulting deployed a side-scan sonar unit and was able to locate the body after approximately three hours. Recovery was made and the family was notified.

The body will be transported to Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office and no further details are available at this time.   

About Cook County, MN 

Cook County encompasses the sovereign nation of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; the City of Grand Marais; the Townships of Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder; and unincorporated areas in the easternmost part of Minnesota’s North Shore. Cook County Government values transparency and strives to deliver superior services and programs in a fiscally responsible way. We value the dignity of all County residents and seek to create a community that provides opportunity for all. Many of our offices are in the Cook County Courthouse at 411 W 2nd St, Grand Marais 55604. Other departments and facilities, such as the Airport, Community Center, Highway and Sheriff are located nearby. Call 218-387-3000 or visit: https://co.cook.mn.us  

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Contact:  Sheriff Pat Eliasen, 218-387-3030 or [email protected]