Hamilton Blues Lovers: Dundas Bassist Raymond Poirier Passes

Above courtesy of Nicole Noel

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Dundas bassist Raymond Poirier.

His obituary

A life gone too soon. A battle was continually fought, but the Lord had other plans for our dear and caring Raymond Poirier.

It is with a heavy and saddened heart that we announce the passing of Raymond Joseph Poirier from Dundas, on December 22, 2020 in his 67th year. With his partner, Sandi Stirling by his side, he returned home to be reunited with those who have gone before him, including his parents Ida & Daniel Poirier, and sister Diana Richarz.

Raymond was a loving father to Candace Craven (Dave) and his two grandchildren Jovie and Vincent Craven. Loving partner to Sandi Stirling and step-father to Lynsay (Jordan) and Ken (Erin) Connell. Uncle to Essa Richarz (Carol), JP Richarz (Coretta), Dana Rosiello (Anthony), and a Great Uncle to Zac, Devon, Jenna, Marcus, Madisyn, Robert, Luca, and Domenic.

Raymond had many close friends namely Nicole Noel, Joanne Augustyn, Shannon Beaulieu, John White, Reg and Patti Denis, Rob LaMaines, Mike Almas and Al Falcone and many musicians too many to list. Raymond spent 35 years as a letter carrier with Canada Post, but he was also an exceptionally talented musician playing the bass guitar with bands around Ontario. He had a passion for music, watching live bands, motorsports, go-karts and travelling with his partner Sandi on cruises, bus tours, and a memorable month trip in Kauai. He loved his Beagles as they bought him insurmountable joy. Raymond loved to go camping and even driving in his converted 1964 Blue Bird bus, especially to Racetracks, and being around his friends. Talking about friends and family, Raymond had the biggest heart for all he knew, he was a good man, and you could always trust on him and he was always there for you. The neighbourhood and house will now be quiet, with no band practices in the basement or loud races and Ti-Cat Games on the TV. There will be an emptiness that one is not able to describe, but in spirit he will be with us, continually by our side.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of his life. Thank you to the Doctors who worked endlessly to help him get better. To all of his support team – Medical, friends, and family – you are so appreciated and thank you, you made all the difference and our gratitude overflows to you.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the SPCA

Due to the Covid 19 restrictions, details of Raymond’s service, interment and celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Comments from his obituary page:

Reg Denis (Crackers)

Ray always thanked me for giving him his first job playing in a band in 1968, it was great performing with him and I got to know him Mom n Dad and sister very well. I will always remember our times together, we were very close friends and kept in touch all our lives, he will be very missed, gone but NEVER forgotten.

David Cross and Deanna Cross

Ray played in our band for quite a few years. He loved music, and he was so talented! More than that, he was a kind soul. He only wanted the best for others. We had such good times in that band, owing to his great sense of humour.
Ray is going to be so missed, by his friends, his family, and the Hamilton Music Community.
Rest in Peace, Ray.

His friend Colin Smith, wrote this song for him

Video above courtesy of Colin Smith