Richard G. “Dick” McLaughlin, 77, of Conneaut, passed away peacefully at home Monday evening, January 28, 2019, surrounded by his family. He was born November 16, 1941 in an oil camp in Irran, Texas, and was the son of Francis and Donna (Wood) McLaughlin. Dick honorably served his country for 9 years as Chief Warrant Officer in the United States Army.
He served in the Vietnam War, servicing the jeeps and tanks, making sure they were safe and secure to go back out to war. He also served time in Germany. He worked for Transplastics, MFG, and Premix where he was mentored by George Kaull.
Years ago, Richard ran Raceway 7. Richard became President for over 20 years of General Aluminum. As the president of General Aluminum, he would greet each employee every morning took a personal interest in each employees lives.
He was a boss who believed everyone deserved an opportunity, even if it was a second chance. He was a true mentor to everyone he met. Dick was co-owner and “Ambassador” of Biscotti’s Restaurant with his wife Lori for 18 years.
You would often find him strolling through the restaurant, humming along, checking in to make sure everything was running smoothly. He would stop by to greet customers and make sure they were enjoying their meals and time at Biscotti’s. He was a member of the American Legion Cowle Post #151, Moose Lodge and the Eagles.
Dick was an avid sports fan, especially the Cleveland Cavs, Indians, Browns, and Ohio State. He also enjoyed and supported all Conneaut Spartan sports and Edgewood once his grandson started his sports career. Richard was a runner in high school, holding the track record for many years in the 100 yard dash under Coach Garcia.
Richard was very involved in all of his children and grandchildren’s sports activities. He was their biggest fan and supporter. Most importantly, Dick loved his family and those that became his family, whether it was through his work places or people he met on the street.
He never met a stranger, and would give you the coat off his back if needed. Survivors include his wife Lori (Varee) McLaughlin, whom he married December 31, 1990, his sons Kenny McLaughlin of Conneaut, and Gary (Kathy) McLaughlin of Cuyahoga Falls; his daughter Kim (John) Lind of Chandler, AZ; his sister Martha Ann Park of Maine; his brothers David McLaughlin of Florida, and Gary (Mary) McLaughlin of Kingsville; his grandchildren Brianna Stuart, Michael McLaughlin, Anne-Marie McLaughlin, Connor McLaughlin, Andrew McLaughlin, Ava McLaughlin, Audrey McLaughlin, Avery Lind, Alex Lind, Melissa Hladek, and Jessica Rooney; his great-grandchildren Giulianna and Zephyr, with two boys on the way; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother-in-law Tom Park.
Private funeral service will be held at the Marcy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 208 Liberty St., Conneaut with military honors conducted by the American Legion Cowle Post #151. Burial will follow in Spring Cemetery, Springboro, PA. Friends may call from 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM, Sunday, February 3, 2019 at the D-Day Sanctuary, 283 Buffalo St., (former New Leaf UMC) Conneaut.
Because of Dick and his families love of sports and their dedication to the community, contributions may be made in his memory to Conneaut Area City Schools, ATTN: Jackie Miranda, 230 Gateway Ave. Suite B., Conneaut, OH 44030, memo: SPARC (A Social Place for Athletes, Recreation, & Community) or to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215. Envelopes will be available at visitation or at the Marcy Funeral Home which is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.
The family would like to thank Dick’s special caregivers, Dr. Kenneth Rosplosk and his team at the DaVita Dialysis Center, Ashtabula Veterans Clinic, Hospice of the Western Reserve, the entire staff at UH Conneaut Medical Center, especially the Emergency Room Department, and UH Geauga Hospital for their love and continuous care over the past four years. Sign the guestbook at www. marcyfuneralhome.com.
Donations may be made to: Conneaut Area City Schools (SPARC) ATTN: Jackie Miranda, 230 Gateway Ave.
If you found any mistakes, or you would like to add/remove to this obituary, please contact us by email: info@obituary.memorial. We never ask money for this.
