Al (Butch) Poirier was born on September 17, 1941, in Lewiston, Maine, and passed away peacefully from a stroke on December 14, 2025, at the age of 84 in Winston Salem, NC, surrounded by loved ones. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Forsyth Medical Center for their support during his final hours.


Al is survived by his wife Mary (Wallenmaier Tait) of 33 years, his sons Dan Poirier (Jennifer) & David Poirier (Mike), daughter Tracey Erbe (Sean), sister Annette Cote, brother Joe Poirier, and grandsons Cameron Poirier and Mitchell Erbe. He also leaves behind a host of cousins, cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, and his first wife Diane Poirier (Guertin) of 28 years.


Al was preceded in death by his mother Jeanne Shapiro (Gaudreau Poirier), father Ernest (Pop) Poirier, stepfather David Shapiro, stepson Adam Tait, and great-nephew Tony Ayotte.


Al grew up in Lewiston, Maine, and loved going back to visit family which always included large rambunctious lobster feeds and spirited Cribbage & Skat card games.

He served active duty in the Air Force from 1961 to 1981, followed by Civil Service until he retired in 2003 completing 42 years in the Air Force. Upon enlistment, Al was assigned to the Air Force Band where he showcased his musical talents on the tuba, bass, and trumpet, before cross-training into the club field to pursue his culinary passion. He obtained certification as Executive Chef from the American Culinary Federation Educational Institute and completed advanced training at the renowned Mt. Royal Hotel in London. He became widely recognized for his artistry in creating elaborate multi-course dinners, featuring intricate ice sculptures and ornate cheese carvings. His culinary expertise delighted guests including high ranking generals at Air Force Bases across the country, where he transformed meals into unforgettable experiences with his beautifully crafted dishes and decorative appetizers. Al also served his country during the Vietnam War, spending a year in Thailand from 1969 to 1970.


Al led an active and vibrant life. He loved sports and throughout his life was a member of several bowling leagues and played golf and softball. He had a passion for saltwater fishing and shrimping, especially with his lifelong friend and fishing buddy Don Wolfe (Wolfie), his best 'skipper' daughter Tracey, and countless others up for an adventure. Into retirement, Al was proud to be a girls' high school and Division 1 NCAA fast pitch softball umpire and high school basketball referee.

At age 10, Al received his first American Flyer model train engine, sparking a later in life hobby of building detailed scenic train dioramas. Most recently, he spent countless hours enthusiastically expanding an intricate 4x8-foot section to his largest setup. In his remembrance on December 15, 2025, his son Dan, grandson Cameron, and daughter Tracey opened his train-themed Christmas gifts from his wife Mary and lovingly placed the final train scenery pieces on his behalf.

A celebration of life will be held this summer in Lewiston, Maine (date to be announced).

Al's absence will be deeply felt, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.