Joseph "Joe" Poisson

Joseph Poisson, born March 5, 1955, in Minneapolis, MN, known affectionately as “Uncle Joe” by his loved ones, passed away peacefully at the age of 68 in his Jenkins, MN home after courageously battling lung cancer. Joe’s adventure took him across the nation and over the South Pacific’s blue waters, where he met his beloved wife, Malae Poisson.

Despite his travels, he found his heart anchored in the familiar landscapes of Minnesota, which he proudly called his forever home. Joe’s legacy was as vast as the oceans he once navigated as a chief engineer on commercial fishing boats in the Bering Sea. His tales of the sea, his adventures hitchhiking with his nephew, Louis, from Minnesota to Seattle, and the countless stories of his siblings, nieces, and nephews will forever echo in the halls of memory. A skilled craftsman, Joe found solace in the simple pleasures of fishing Minnesota’s serene lakes, forging knives, and handpicking choke cherries to make schnapps, which he generously shared with neighbors.

 Joe’s heart was anchored by his unwavering devotion to family and friends. His home was the epicenter of joy, where annual 4^th of July celebrations became a cherished tradition. His spirit will continue to be the centerpiece of such gatherings, as the stories of his life are passed down through generations. His greatest treasures were his children and grandchildren, who, alongside his siblings, held a special place in his heart.

Joe is lovingly remembered by his wife, Malae; children, Jason, Jami, Jenny, Faalagi, and Norman Poisson; his brother, Mike Poisson; his sisters, Betty Rosine, Janice Collins, Marlene Bourke, Bonita Lobert, Jenny Kiebach, and Renee Poisson; and his adored grandchildren, Rylie, Haylie, Addison, and Aaron. He was embraced in eternity by his parents, Rolland and Helen Poisson; his brother, Ronald Poisson; and his sisters, Charlotte Canton and Mary Ann Poisson.

In honor of Joe’s final wishes, a celebration of life will take place at his Jenkins residence on the 4^th of July, 2024, where stories, laughter, and love will fill the air in tribute to a life well-lived. Joe’s valiant spirit will be laid to rest at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery at Camp Ripley on February 2, 2024, at 2 PM. Family and friends are invited to join in commemorating a man whose life was as rich and deep as the sea he once sailed. Joe Poisson, a man of the sea, of the earth, and of the heart, leaves behind a wake of love and memories that will forever ripple through the lives of those he touched.

Sail on, Joe, to your final harbor, where the waters are calm, and the fish are always biting. You will be deeply missed.