My name is Christian Payer, and I’m reaching out as a longtime friend of Marcel “Gars” Edmond Poirier and his family.

On Monday, August 3, 2026, the Poirier family experienced an unimaginable loss. Marcel, just 43 years old, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Ottawa following a heart attack.

Gars was so much more than a friend. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Melody, and a loving father to their three children, Amélie, 19, Adèle, 14, and Sébastien, 11. His family was his entire world.

Anyone who knew Gars knew how much he loved sports, especially hockey. From spending countless hours on the ice as a kid to playing ball hockey with his friends during the summer, sports were always a huge part of his life. As a father, some of his happiest moments were spent playing sports with Seb, going fishing, watching hockey with his family, and simply being there for the people he loved.

But above everything else, Gars was a provider. He worked hard every day to take care of his family and put their needs before his own. His sudden passing has not only left an enormous hole in their hearts, but has also created an immediate financial hardship. Marcel was the family’s primary breadwinner, and Melody is currently not working while caring for and supporting their children through this devastating loss.

I am starting this fundraiser to help Melody and the kids with the immediate costs of Marcel’s funeral and to provide financial support as they navigate the difficult months ahead. The goal is to give this family some breathing room so they can focus on grieving, healing, and being together rather than worrying about how they will manage financially.

No family should have to face the loss of a husband and father while simultaneously worrying about funeral expenses, household bills, and the uncertainty of what comes next.

If you knew Gars, you know the kind of person he was—loyal, hardworking, funny, caring, and always there for the people he loved. He leaves behind a family who loves him deeply and a lifetime of memories that will never be forgotten.

The family finds comfort in their faith and in knowing that Gars passed peacefully and is now with his Savior, preparing their eternal home. They are also incredibly grateful for the love and support that has already surrounded them during this heartbreaking time.

Any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference to Melody and the children. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with your friends, family, and community would mean just as much.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping us surround Melody, Amélie, Adèle, and Sébastien with the same love and support that Mars gave to so many throughout his life.

Rest peacefully, Gars. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

— Christian Payer, on behalf of the Poirier family