PORTLAND – Bertrand Robert Poussard, 77, went to be with his savior on Wednesday Jan. 23, 2019, at St. Joseph’s rehab in Portland. He was born in Lewiston on Dec. 30, 1941, a son of the late Robert and Yvette (Couture) Poussard.

After graduating from Holy Family School in Lewiston, Bert attended high school at the Seminary of St. Hyacinth, in the Province of Quebec, and then college at the Montreal University. He completed his studies in philosophy and theology at the University of Ottawa and St. Paul’s Seminary, respectively. The Most Reverend Peter L. Gerety, then Co-Adjutor Bishop of Portland, ordained him to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland on May 20, 1967.

During his years of full-time active ministry, Fr. Poussard served as Assistant Pastor at Notre Dame Parish, Skowhegan (1967-1973); Notre Dame Parish, Waterville (1973-1976); St. Hyacinth Parish, Westbrook (1976-1978). He then became Administrator at St. Joseph’s Parish, Wallagrass (1978-1979); Associate Pastor at St. Mary’s Parish, Westbrook (1979-1980); St. Joseph’s Parish, Biddeford (1980-1981); St. Mary’s Parish, Wells (1981-1982); St. Louis Parish, Auburn (1982-1985), then served as temporary Administrator: St. Philip’s Parish, Lyman (1985). Fr.Poussard became certified as a chaplain by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains and his final assignment before retiring was as Chaplain at St. Mary’s Hospital, Lewiston from 1985 to 2001.

Fr. Poussard also served in the following capacities and assignments, Moderator: Maine Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, Representative to Priests Senate: North Cumberland Deanery, member of the Knights of Columbus 4th degree, Chaplain to: Fort Kent Knights of Columbus – Council # 1934, as well as their 4th Degree Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes Auxiliary; Chaplain to: Westbrook Knights of Columbus – Council #2219, Faithful Friar: Andy Valley Memorial Assembly – 4th Degree Knights of Columbus (Auburn).

Fr. Poussard formally retired in 2004, due to health issues. Bishop Joseph Gerry, OSB, once wrote to Fr. Poussard: “I have been deeply impressed with the humility and honesty with which you recognize your gifts and the graciousness with which you have placed yourself at the service of the Church.”

Fr. Poussard is survived by his sister, Louise and her husband Fernand Roy of Lewiston; two nephews Jim Roy and wife Marlene of Monmouth and their two children Matt and Zack, and Larry Roy and his wife Diana of Mechanic Falls and their two children Sam, and Cassie.

You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Fr. Bert’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com

Reception of the body will be Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019 at 3:00 p.m., at Holy Family Church of Prince of Peace Parish, 607 Sabattus St. Fr. Robert Lariviere, Presider/Homilist. Visitation immediately following the Reception of the Body until 7:00 p.m., at Holy Family Church of Prince of Peace Parish. Mass of Christian Burial Friday, Feb. 1, 2019, 11:00 a.m., at Holy Family Church of Prince of Peace Parish, (Bishop Robert Deeley, Presider). Committal following the Funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Switzerland Road, Lewiston. Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, Cremation & Monument Services 217 Turner St. Auburn 783-8545.

Those wishing to make memorial donations in his name may do so to:

The Clergy Benefit Plan

c/o The Portland Diocese

510 Ocean Ave.

Portland, ME 04104

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