Ft. Wayne, IN – Charles L. Poirier, age 68, of 1524 Bayer Ave., Ft. Wayne passed away on Friday, January 13, 2012 at his home.


Charles was born June 12, 1943 in Ishpeming the son of the late Charles E. and Teresa A. (Gardoni) Poirier. He was a graduate of the Ishpeming High School, Class of 1961. He went on to attend Michigan Tech, where he graduated with degrees in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. Charles working career took him to downstate Michigan and Indiana, where he worked for several companies, including Magnavox where he was instrumental in the development of the VCR. Charles enjoyed doing carpentry work and also operated a furniture factory, making fine wood furniture and fixtures.


Survivors include two sisters – Barbara Poirier of Ishpeming and Mary Ann (Bud) Mantyla of Columbus, IN, two brothers – David Poirier of Ishpeming and Donald (Jeanne) Poirier of Cashmere, WA, aunt and uncle Natalie & James LaFreniere of Ishpeming, aunt Severina Roose of Ishpeming, several nieces, nephews and cousins, along with Charles' Fort Wayne Family – Paul and Annie Bishop, James (Marissa) Bishop, Evah Bishop, Moriah Bishop and Ronnishya Bishop. He was preceded in death by his parents and Luke Charles Bishop.


The family will greet relatives and friends from 10 until 11am on Friday, January 20, 2011 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church. A memorial Mass will follow at 11:00am on Friday at the St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. James Challancin to officiate. Inurnment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.