John Raymond Pooler, Sr. (Jack) aged 72 of Old Orchard Beach peacefully passed away on June 18th, 2020 surrounded by his family at the Maine Veteran’s Home in Scarborough. This was his home for the past 5 ½ years.
He was born December 5th, 1947 in Portland, ME to Sidney and Marion Pooler of Scarborough. Jack had 2 siblings, Rodney Pooler and Sandra Pooler Nielsen Stephens.
He graduated Scarborough High School in 1967 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force that fall. On July 5th, 1969, he married Barbara Ann Hicks, while home on leave. The Air Force would send Jack and Barbara to live other places, including Okinawa, Japan and Arkansas during his 6 ½ years of service. He was a volunteer fireman with Scarborough and South Portland Fire Departments while raising their family in South Portland. Later in life, they lived in Gray and Old Orchard Beach.
Jack had 3 sons, John Jr, Jason and Jay. He was very involved in his children’s sports and activities from football to band. He always enjoyed watching the children play and later on cheered on his grandkids.
He worked in several industries over the years namely Data General, Nichols of Portland, Maine Youth Center, Black Bear Security, Public Cover Security, Lock Stock & Barrel, finally retiring from Boater’s World.
He enjoyed fishing, camping, boating and the outdoors. He also loved dancing. He and Barbara could be seen most weekends dancing at local halls. Their Jitter Bug was something to watch and you would swear Barbara was floating on air when they waltzed.
Jack is survived by his wife of almost 51 years, Barbara Pooler of Old Orchard Beach; Sons: John Pooler Jr and wife Rhonda of Auburn; Jason Pooler and wife Peggy of North Waterboro; Jay Pooler and wife Nicole of Auburn; Grandchildren: Jamison, Michaela, Matthew, Jacob and Marissa, Step-grandchildren Jeffrey Bowden his wife Amanda and son Rowan, Ashley and Jessica; Brother Rodney Pooler and wife Marilyn of Florida; Mother in law, Myrtle Hicks of Portland; Sister in law Nancy Wakem and husband Gary of Scarborough along with many nieces and nephews.
Jack was predeceased by his parents Sidney and Marion Pooler; sister Sandra Stephens; and father in law Hartley Hicks.
The family would like to thank the Maine Veteran’s Home in Scarborough for the care and compassion they showed Jack over the past five and a half years. From the endless hours of physical therapy, to nursing care and activities, Jack was always given the best care. Also, a thank you to all the friends he and Barbara made with other Veterans and spouses staying at the home.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Maine Veteran’s Home would be a great honor to Jack’s life and military service helping other residents of the MVH.
