Published in the June 9, 2017 edition
MELROSE — William “Bill” D. Poirier was born in Everett to the late William and Muriel Poirier.
Bill loved to talk, and he loved to listen to the stories of the people around him. He was a skilled machinist at General Electric for many years. He first in Everett and later moved to Lynn, where he worked on building jet engines.
Bill was many things. He was the beloved “Chef Bill” at the Lincoln Elementary School; the one and only “lunch dude” at Saint Mary’s Elementary School; and Coach Bill/Mr. Poirier to the many teams he coached: Melrose Little League, Melrose Incarnation Baseball, Austin Prep Baseball, Melrose Youth Softball, Melrose Youth Soccer, and Pope John Volleyball just to name a few. He could often be found catching up with locals at the Mobil in Melrose. He loved to spend his time at the Lake house in Milton, New Hampshire; where the saying goes, “Life is better at Papa and Gramma’s Lake house.”
Bill grew up in Everett and attended Everett High School, where he met the love of his life and wife, Patricia Poirier (Aylward.) Billy and Patty were together for 45 years and married for 38. Bill was the loving father of Zachary Poirier of Melrose; Joshua Poirier and his wife Marissa Fast of Peabody; Noah Poirier of Melrose; and Sarah Poirier of Brooklyn, New York. He was the cherished Papa of Holly, Cara and Lilah. He was the caring brother-in-law of Brenda-Lyn Aylward of Dennis Port; and Mary Monica Aylward of Everett. He was the nephew of Lyn Kelly of South Yarmouth. He was the uncle of Dominic of Revere and Gina Forte of Everett. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. Bill was legendary. He left a lasting impact on anyone who crossed paths with him.
Visiting hours were held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St., Melrose on Sunday, June 4. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home took place on Monday, June 5, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St., Mary’s Church, Herbert St., Melrose. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Adult Diabetes Clinic at Joslin Diabetes Center, 1 Joslin Place, Suite 745, Boston, MA 02215.
