Obituary of Claude Michel Poulin

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Claude Michel Poulin, affectionately known as "Pony" to his family and friends. He passed away peacefully at home, In Hantsport, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the age of 88.

Claude was born on June 12, 1936 and grew up in the Sandy Hill neighborhood of Ottawa as the youngest of 13 children. He was doted on by his parents and elder siblings who instilled a deep respect of family and an appreciation of the bonds that last a lifetime. In 1955, Claude enrolled in the Royal Canadian Air Force where he acquired the nickname Pony and embarked on a successful 31-year career. While training to become an Integral Systems Technician he met and married the love of his life Jeanette “Jan” (McDonald). Together, they raised four sons while moving numerous times across Canada and spending four years in Germany. Sadly, they lost their second son, Curtis due to illness while stationed at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake in 1963. In 1986, Pony released from the service and settled in Jan’s hometown of Hantsport, Nova Scotia. He worked for another 10 years with the provincial law courts before fully retiring in 1996.

Pony was a saxophone player, self-taught handyman, even building a family home and in retirement he enjoyed gardening, wine making, barbequing and was renowned for his delicious homemade soups. He proudly assumed the title and role of “Grampy” and quietly enriched the lives of the next generation. In May of 2024, Pony and Jan celebrated 65 years of marriage filled with love, laughter and cherished memories. As was his way, he quietly basked in the love of family and took joy in sharing the moment with those who meant the most to him.

Pony deeply loved his family, took immense pride in his role as a father and grandfather. He was a constant source of inspiration, strength and guidance to all. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jan; three sons, Greg (Kim), Mark (Laurie) and Grant (Jennifer); seven grandchildren, Nicholas (Holly), Cameron (Talia), Gregory (Jessica), Maxwell (Nancy), Grace, Madeline and Evelyn; his beloved great-grandchild, Mavis. He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Pony will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317). A service to celebrate his life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Pony may be made to the Hantsport and Area Community Food Bank, PO Box 728, Hantsport, NS B0P 1P0. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca.

May he rest in peace.