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BORN

1934

DIED

2015

Paul Poirier Obituary

Paul Poirier

June 22, 1934 - August 26, 2015

On August 26, 2015, the world lost a generous, compassionate, wonderful man. Paul Poirier's family and friends mourn his loss. He was a dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Following complications of heart surgery and a brave struggle, Paul passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he was the firstborn son of Lorenzo Poirier and Alice Laprise Poirier. When Paul was two years of age, his family moved to Drumheller, Alberta, and there Paul spent his childhood. After high school, he traveled to diverse sites in Canada including Prince George and Prince Rupert, where he worked for Mobil Oil and Canadian Pacific Railway. In 1962, Paul moved to the San Francisco Bay area where he continued his education and pursued a career with Service Battery and Exide Corp for the next 35 years and never returned to live in Canada. He loved his newly-adopted country and spent many years in San Mateo and Belmont before moving to Sonoma County in 1998. Paul was a gentle, kind and tolerant man who always respected people. He had a host of friends and family members who will miss him profoundly. Paul is survived by his second wife, Laura Whooley-Poirier, his son Jeff (Mary Ellen), daughter Jocelyn, grandchildren Zachary and Olivia Poirier, stepson Scott Gaffney (Alison), and grandson Lincoln Gaffney. Paul was predeceased by his brother, Ray Poirier, and survived by two sisters, Carmen and Rosalyn. He is also survived by numerous beloved nieces and nephews in the United States and Canada. Paul's life was rich, full and contented. He loved a good story, a savory Sauvignon Blanc, and anything sweet, especially chocolates. With a vibrant personality and ready smile, he was the quintessential host at the many parties he and Laura had-for birthday celebrations, Christmas and other holidays. Lots of laughter and memorable times were shared around their dining room table. Besides traveling the world, Paul enormously enjoyed puttering in his garden, and among other outdoor treasures, had a prized fig tree he carefully nurtured. He was a lover of history, maps and classical jazz. Paul faithfully supported numerous local charities. He also built years of happy memories spending time with friends at Wild Oak Saddle Club. Per his wishes, Paul's ashes will be scattered in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada. The date for a celebration of life will be announced later. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Redwood Empire Food Bank, Council on Aging, or a charity of choice. Heartfelt thanks to Daniels Chapel of the Roses for their attentive care.
"That best portion of a good man's life,
His little, nameless, unremembered acts
Of kindness and of love."
~ William Wordsworth

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Sep. 3 to Sep. 6, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Poirier

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Joe Sermeno

February 13, 2023

Be at peace, Mr. Poirier.

Daniel Lim

September 19, 2015

Laura our sympathies to you and the family. Aileen and I will definitely miss his great big smile and laughter. We are so glad to have been part of his friendship. We shall never forget the time we spend with him as well as listening to his many travel encounterment when we visited you both in Santa Rosa. May the happy memories which you both shared together continues to linger in your heart . God Bless

September 10, 2015

We will always be so grateful for Paul's devotion to his beloved wife, Laura and his many friends, including us. We were so lucky to share many wonderful times with him and I'll especially remember his version of, "Happy Bir-si-day" along with his sweet giggle and love of his garden. You fought the brave fight, Paul, but now you are at rest. We love you.
Sandy & Bruce Main

Elaine Osborne

September 7, 2015

Paul was truly a good man. He will be missed by all, and I consider myself fortunate for having known him and getting to do as many things with him and Laura as Kimmie and I were able to. So many fun and great times together. Thanks for the memories Paul. We love you!
Laura--you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Elaine Osborne

Dan and Donna Buscovich

September 5, 2015

We are so lucky that Paul and Laura moved into our neighborhood. We will always keep Paul in our hearts. The memories of his wonderful smile, contagious laugh and duck quacks to all the kids he encountered make us smile everytime we think of him. Love you always Paul.

Kathy Rinetti

September 5, 2015

Paul was a wonderful man. We are so happy that we knew him. A big heart and a wonderful smile. Cherish the good times. Laura our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Fondly,
Kathy & Brian

Marilyn Shipley

September 4, 2015

Paul absolutely loved history. So much fun watching him in Lexington, mo. He loved his Laura. We do too. This is so sad.

Joy & Frank Carrasquilla

September 4, 2015

To a man who has certainly given light to our lives and made us better for knowing him. May you find piece in your new venture. We will miss you and that wonderful glow that emanated from your soul.

Diane & Ken Grobman

September 4, 2015

We felt such a closeness to Paul since moving in across the street, and yet he left us way too soon. We miss his sweet smiling face and his love and zest for life. He was Ken's partner in crime eating forbidden ice cream. Now he'll be the angel watching over his shoulder when he does it instead.
Until we meet again,rest in eternal peace.
Diane and Ken

September 4, 2015

Hi Laura, this is Andrea's niece Sue DeVol from Roseville. Although my memories of Paul were few, I do always remember him smiling, very sweet and friendly. You were married to a wonderful man and are very fortunate to have close friends to be with you during this difficult time. I know you have beautiful thoughts and memories to always have in your heart. My prayers and thoughts are with you Laura.
Warmly,
Sue and Doug DeVol

Andrea & Don Willett

September 4, 2015

Paul's close friendship was such a treasure to us. He gave so much love and he felt it too. Laura and their big family meant the world to him. We have countless happy memories. We'll never forget the gleam in his eyes, his big grin and sounds of laughter together. Here's a great memomory of Paul and his buddies, Norm, Don and Joe in Paris - 2006. RIP dear friend. love, Andrea and Don

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