POISSON – William G. Poisson aged 83 of Grand Rapids went to be with his Lord after a long illness on January 1 2008. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Mary Poisson and his sister Charlene Apsey. He is survived by his loving wife Grace M. Poisson (Russo) and his children Annette (Michael) Littell Patricia (John) O’Connor William G. Jerry (Cindy) Poisson Jr., and Andrew Poisson. Bill and Grace have four grandchildren Sara Littell Drew O’Connor Kevin O’Connor and Nicholas Poisson. He is also survived by his sister Alice (Thomas) Cariano and many nieces nephews brothers-in-law sisters-in-law and many friends. Born April 10 1924 Captain Bill was the last of the Reeds Lake Steamship Captains. The Poisson family operated steamships on Reeds Lake from 1882 until 1956. For many years he served as EGR Harbor Master. Bill was a veteran of World War II having proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard LCI (L) 1027. Bill was an active member of America Legion Post 208 Amvets Post 23 and the VFW Creston Post 3023. He was an avid outdoorsman and the recipient of multiple Master Angler Awards. On February 5 1949 Bill married the love of his life Grace Russo. He worked for Lear Siegler Inc. for 28 years during which time he worked on equipment that became parts of NASA’s Lunar Lander. He retired in 1986. In his retirement he enjoyed traveling his outdoor activities and spending time with his family. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Saturday at St. Paul the Apostle Church 2750 Burton St. SE Msgr. Ernest P. Schneider presiding. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Vigil service 6:00 p.m. Visitation 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel 3980 Cascade Rd. SE. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul the Apostle Church or the East Grand Rapids History Room c/o Mary Dersch Curator.
