Joe Poisson

Joe, 67, of Westminster, Colorado, passed April 25, 2016. Joseph Barry Poisson was born in Columbus, Ohio on June 30, 1948 to parents, Brigit Gorman Barry and Joseph Maher, where he was later adopted by Robert A. Poisson. Joseph attended St. James, Machebeuf and graduated from George Washington High School in 1966. He then attended Western State College where he obtained his Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in 1972. His first teaching job was at South Park High School in Fairplay, Colorado. He then spent a career of 32 years at Arvada High School, teaching American History, Government and Economics. During his career, he coached football, track, cross country, and most notably girls' basketball. He helped lead his teams to a 1981 girls' basketball state championship. He received many awards and, in 2003, was named Jefferson County Coach of the Year. He touched so many lives and was loved by fellow teachers, coaches, students and athletes. He married the love of his life, Sharon O'Brien, on June 29, 1970 and they enjoyed 46 years of marriage together. His family is as follows: Mother: Brigit D. Barry (deceased), Father: Joseph Maher(deceased), Adopted Father: Robert A. Poisson (deceased) Wife: Sharon O'Brien Children: Jennifer Gehrman (Bill Gehrman, spouse), Chris Poisson (Michelle Poisson, spouse) Grandchildren: Courtney Strong, Jeffrey Gehrman, Michael Poisson, Jonathon Gehrman and Gabriella Poisson Siblings: Pat Gorman Barry (Don, spouse), Roberth McMaher (Marcia, spouse), Julie Dady (Eric, spouse), David Poisson, Philip Poisson (deceased) (Becky, spouse), Brian Poisson, Joan Luny, Pauline Haberman (Scott, spouse), Joyce Poisson (Skip, spouse) and Mary O'Brien. Nieces/Nephews: Brianna, Grant, Isiah, Venessa, Kristen, Cari-Kate, Kathleen, Maureen, Sean, Janelle, Greg, Elizabeth, Brendan, Patrick, David, Alexander, Kelsey, Melanie and Morgan. He was also blessed with Grand Nieces and Nephews. Joseph was a loving husband, wonderful dad, special grandpa, great brother, beloved teacher and coach, and a treasured friend - he will be missed. A Celebration of Life honoring Joe will be Saturday, April 30, 2016, beginning at 12:00 noon at Lakewood High School Gym, 9700 West 8th Avenue, Lakewood, Colorado 80215. A reception continues the celebration immediately following at 1:30 PM at Brooklyn's, 901 Auraria Parkway, Denver, Colorado 80204. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made to: Gold Crown Foundation via Mackenzie Forrest Legacy Fund 7400 East Crestline Circle, Suite 200 Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111 or online at www.MacForrest33.com Please share your memories of Joe and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.