Obituary of John Robert McLaughlin

It is with great sadness that we the children of John Robert McLaughlin announce his peaceful passing on December 19^th, 2021, at the age of 97 at his residence, Ridgewood Veterans Wing, Saint John, NB.

Dad (John) was born April 12^th, 1924, in Saint John to Leo B. and M. Teresa McLaughlin (nee Murphy).

John was predeceased by his wife, his one and only love Rita M. McLaughlin (nee Cavanaugh). They married May 28^th, 1949, after meeting September 28^th, 1948, on a blind date. Mom and Dad had 9 children during their 58 years of marriage, of whom he is survived by 6 sons, Joseph (Debbie), Michael, John Leo, Robert (Janet), David (Alison), Peter; 3 daughters, Ann Marie, Teresa Gallant, Helen; 10 grandchildren, in order of birth, Angella Mercer (Troy), Paula (Chris), Catharine Hovey (Ben), Joel Machum, Ellen McCurry (Dave), Mackenzie Gallant, John (Jamie), Laura (Matt), Patrick Gallant (Sarah), & Paul; 5 great-grandchildren, Elizabeth & Amelia Mercer, Lyra & Maiya Hovey, & Arthur McCurry; brother-in-Law Vincent Cavanaugh; sisters-in-law, Catherine & Connie McLaughlin, & Lorraine Cochrane; son-in-law Kenny Gallant. As well as by many nieces, nephews, and extended family. John was a loving father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all.

Dad served in WWII as a Private in the R.C.A.F. from November 20^th, 1942- April 13^th, 1946, he was stationed in Windsor, Penfield, Summerside, Moncton & Newfoundland as an Air Force mechanic. After leaving the Air Force in 1946, he worked at Foley Pottery, Loch Lomond Road, and then off to Irving Pulp and Paper Mill (West) for 39 years, retiring in 1989. He was a dedicated and loyal employee to the Irving’s and well respected by both management and union workers.

John was a Legion Member, Bingo Caller, and Bartender at the old George’s Tavern, which surprised us all as he was not a drinker. However, that extra cash would buy our first car and take us to Bangor for some frugal Christmas shopping.

Volunteer Service: St Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, which began as a request for 6 weeks that turned into 24 years of volunteer service till the age of 89. Maritimer of Week in 2006 honour from ATV for Mom and Dad’s charitable work.

Dad was a devout Roman Catholic and had a very strong faith, which he exuded through his life of service to the church at both St. Peter’s and St. Pius X.

Dad loved all sports and was both a Boston Bruins and Toronto Blue Jays fan. You name it he watched it, he sometimes would have 2 TVs on the go, watching the Stanley Cup Playoffs on one, and baseball on the other. If warranted, he would have an earplug on the radio, listening to basketball.  

John was a fan of old movies, gospel, and jazz music. He loved doing crosswords, playing cards (even scoring 29 in a cribbage hand). With Dad we all knew what side our bread was buttered on; he also told us never to take any wooden nickels. He was very proud of his family, and we would often hear him bragging about us to his neighours or anyone around him as we left from a visit.

Dad is the last surviving member of his immediate family. Besides our mom and his parents, Dad was predeceased by his brothers, Bill (Pat), Gerry, Donnie (Irene), Frank, Art (Florence), & Patrick; sisters, Theresa Harrington (Fred) & Helen.

We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation and thanks to the caring staff at Ridgewood Veterans Wing, who graciously took care of him. The compassion and support shown towards John and all of us will never be forgotten. Enjoy a revel (ice cream bar) on us.

We his children will forever remember with great love and admiration Dad’s devoutness and selflessness to his family. From tying our skates so we could skate on the outdoor rink he made for us, to caring for us during sickness. Taking us for drives, to the drive-in, or for ice cream, even helping us through college - we shall miss him, and honor him in our memory every day.

Rest in peace Dad. We will miss you.

Friends and family will be received at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, on Wednesday, December 22^nd, 2021, from 2 to 4pm and 6 to 8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Holy Redeemer Parish (St. Pius X Church), 316 Somerset Street, Saint John, on Thursday, December 23^rd, 2021, at 1pm. Interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Due to Covid-19 health measures placed on indoor gatherings by the Province of New Brunswick, all those in attendance, 12 years of age and older, will be required to show proof of vaccination as well as a piece of government-issued ID, or proof of medical exemption.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to the Saint Joseph’s Hospital Foundation or Ridgewood Veterans Comfort Fund.

Online condolences may be placed at www.Brenansfh.com.