Obituary of Pascal "Pat" Poirier

Poirier, Charles Pascal (Pat) 63, Halifax, passed away on Nov 4, 2009 at the QEII Hospital, Halifax, NS, after a long struggle due to complications of leukemia and surgery. Born in Halifax, he was the son of the late Arthur and Leonie (Comeau) Poirier. He is survived by his loving companion and “very special person” Dolores McCormick; children Billy and Krista; sisters Jeanette (David), Blockhouse; Simone (Allen) Poirier-Bures, Virginia; brother Paul (Diane), Belleville, Ont.; and former spouses Peggy Sweet and Vera Trott. Pascal worked for many years as an insurance underwriter until his forced early retirement at 49 due to a stroke. Pascal was a passionate woodworker and many have benefited from his skills. He volunteered at the woodworking shop for the senior vets at Camp Hill Veterans Unit. He made hundreds of beautiful wooden toys which he donated to needy children through the food bank and Bryony House, and also to family and friends. He worked with the Boy Scouts both as a leader and later as a provider of wood crafts for cub camps. The highlight of his hobby was the 2007 dory building course at the Halifax waterfront. For many years he was an enthusiastic volunteer and champion of the Halifax Special Olympics in which his two children participated. He served as coach and scorekeeper for their weekly bowling games and you could count on him to be there to photograph their special events and sport tournaments. In the last 2 years he became an active volunteer for the Tetra Society as well. A talented amateur photographer, Pascal enjoyed early walks to catch just the right light. He was also an avid gardener and his yard is a delightful wild jungle oasis, filled with flowers, vegetables and his beloved bluejays. He was a grateful member and supporter of Al-anon, where he learned to practice “one day at a time”. Pascal took the lemons in his life and made lemonade. He will be remembered for his caring and sharing and his willingness to help others. He will also be remembered for his great sense of humour and practical jokes, especially those involving signs on front lawns and water guns. We love you, Pascal, and will miss you a lot. A special thanks to all QEII staff who worked so hard on his behalf and supported us through this difficult time. Cremation has taken place under the care of JA Walker Funeral Home 92005) Ltd., 149 Herring Cove Road, Halifax, NS (477.5601), where visitation will be held on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A celebration of Pascal's life will be held on Monday, November 9, 2009 at 1 PM from the funeral home chapel. Interment will take place in Gate of Heaven cemetery, Lower Sackville, NS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Halifax Special Olympics or the charity of your choice. Words of comfort may be sent to the family by visiting www.walkerfh.com