Mr. Albert Poitras, 89, died peacefully on April 5th at Holy Family Hospital after a brief illness. He was born on November 16, 1926 in Lawrence, Massachusetts and attended Lawrence Schools. He spent hours of his boyhood and young adulthood fishing and boating on the Spicket River. Al later became an avid ice fisherman although he was never known to eat a fish.

He served in the United States Navy and traveled to Okinawa. He was discharged honorably with the rank of Cockswain.  Al worked as a union ironworker until retirement and told stories of the building of the Seabrook power station. He met his wife Selma Donigian with whom he shared almost 60 years of marriage. They made their home first in Methuen and then in Salem NH for many years, where they were very involved in the Salem Senior Center. Al had hobbies including stamp and coin collecting and a passion for antique firearms. He also belonged to the Canobie Fish and Game Club. He also enjoyed bicycling on Plum Island. During retirement, he and Selma traveled to Spain,Germany,Turkey, Alaska and took many cruises. Albert also greatly enjoyed sitting down for “a spot of Tea” with anyone who would visit.

     The widower of Selma (Donigian) Poitras, Albert was also predeceased by his parents, Albert Poitras and Catherine (Byrne) Poitras, his sister, Marie Bosse as well as several brothers and sisters-in-law.  His family members include his sisters-in-law, Mary Della-Cioppa and Nancy Donigian, nephews, Richard Naroian and his wife, Barbara, James Naroian, John Donigian and his wife Donna and his niece, Christine Tisbert and her husband, Ken. He also leaves 10 great nieces and nephews who will miss Uncle Al (or Uncle Twig to some of us).

   The family would like to thank the staff at Methuen Village who were a great help to both Al and Selma. At Albert’s request services will be private. Arrangements are by The Charles F. Dewhirst Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. To send an online condolence, please go to www.dewhirstfuneral.com or www.facebook.com/DewhirstFuneralHome.

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