Henry J. Poitras, Jr.

Henry J. Poitras, Jr, age 87, died peacefully on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol, RI. He was the son of the late Marion (Deblois) Poitras and the late Henry Poitras Sr. He was a proud Army veteran who served during the Korean War.

He was married to the late Constance H. (Lanciaux) Poitras for almost 63 years, father of two daughters, Carol Mowatt and Suzanne Poitras and loving grandfather of two grandsons, Christopher Mowatt and Daniel Mowatt who he loved very much.

At the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Korean War after which he continued to serve his country in the National Guard. After his military service, he went on to work as a commercial fisherman for several years. Henry then began his career as a hydraulic systems design engineer; working as a Special Hazard Specialist for Grinnell Fire Protection. He worked for Grinnell (later Tyco Fire Protection) for most of his life designing advanced sprinkler systems for industrial chemical processing plants. Henry frequently received commendations from his customers for his expert work at various sites across the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Henry had a wonderful sense of humor and extended kindness towards others at every opportunity. He was a man who loved to sing and bring smiles to other’s faces. As a Franciscan of the Third Order, he committed his life to serving others. He loved all animals especially his beloved pets who shared his life for many years. Seeking to stay involved in his community, he was an active member of the American Legion Post 15 in East Greenwich, RI for many years. In his later years, Henry “Hank” Poitras was a vibrant personality at the Rhode Island Veteran’s home and he will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

Committal prayers with military honors will be on Friday November 2 ^nd at Noon at the RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. Calling hours: Thursday, November 1 ^st from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main St., East Greenwich. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the Rhode Island Veterans Home Activities Fund, 480 Metacom Avenue, Bristol, RI 02809 or a local animal shelter of your choice.