Paul Andre Poulin

1953 - 2021

Paul Andre Poulin, passed away suddenly on Monday, March 15, 2021 at TBRHSC. Paul was 67 years old. He had developed an aggressive cancer with added complications that quickly became overwhelming. When it proved too much, Paul slipped away gracefully on a sunny spring afternoon.

Paul was born May 1, 1953 in Port Arthur and attended Holy Cross Separate School, Hammarskjold High School and Confederation College where he graduated as a certified surveyor. Paul worked for Kirkup & Sons Surveyors for a number of years. Restless and seeking adventure he headed west to Grande Prairie Alberta to continue working as a surveyor. There, by chance, he met his bride-to-be.

Susan Dowswell. They married in August 1978 and soon bought 40 acres in South Gillies. There he set up a shop and began a successful business building log homes. In 1991 they bought the Stanley Hotel. In more recent years, he and Susan built their dream home on the banks of the Kam River.

Paul was involved with fundraising for an outdoor rink at the South Gillies Hall where they had hockey tournaments and formed the South Gillies Gorillas hockey team. The team later played at the newly built Norwest Arena and became the Stanley Gorillas. For a number of years Paul organized the Whitefish Whip, Northland Lumber Dog Sled Race and the Ice Drags, Bandorama and corn roasts which were held at the Stanley Hotel. His enthusiasm for his community was always evident even as he continued to run his log home building business. Paul loved fishing, hunting and good conversation. He never hesitated to share his opinions and was always ready for good natured debate. He loved his garage and his cook shack and was an excellent cook who generously shared his bounty with friends, family and neighbours. Paul was also a thoughtful man who taught himself to play guitar and even wrote a few of his own songs. The grandkids filled his heart with love and they will miss their Grampa and the special times they shared. Paul's sense of humour and warm presence will be missed by both family and friends.

Paul was very competitive in everything he did. His life-long love of hockey came full circle as he encouraged Dene and celebrated his successes as he developed his own hockey skills.

Over the years Paul grew his business and today Poulin-Built Log Homes stand as monuments to both his skill as a craftsman and talent as an artisan. He has passed his knowledge and passion on to his sons who are now leaving their marks on the work as well.

Paul is survived by his wife Susan, sons Dene (Marlee) grandchildren Owen and Andi, Neil (Ashley Klepack) and grandson Leslie, sisters Dawn Piché (Bob Tonkin) Campbell River BC, Denise (Glen Wallace), Kathy (Bob Stewart), brothers Doug (Diane) Dorion, Jack (Angie) Strathroy, and Pat (Cindy) Red Rock. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive as well as Susan's family. Dear friend, Dave Marion worked with Paul for 34 years and remains to work side by side with Dene and Neil.

Predeceased by his parents, Victor and Helen and brother, Lorne Poulin.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life may occur at a later date when family and friends can gather.

Please send donations to Paws for Love Thunder Bay, email tammi@tbaytel.net where Paul got his beloved dog Sammy.

Online condolences may be made through
www.nwfainc.com