On Tuesday, April 17th, Joseph McLaughlin passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus. The son of the late Ann and John McLaughlin, he was born in the Bronx, NY on April 8, 1941.
A devoted husband and father, ‘Joe’ is survived by Catherine, his wife of 42 years, and his three children, Denis McLaughlin and his wife Jamie of Warwick, NY, Joseph McLaughlin of Manhattan, NY and Marybeth Depew and her husband Daniel of Wallkill, NY, and sister-in-law Carol McLaughlin of Walnut Creek, CA. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Joseph, Ryan, Carly and Benjamin. He was predeceased by his brothers, John and Roger McLaughlin.
Joe lived a life committed to the service of his country and others. He served four years in the U.S. Navy – SM 2/C, and 26 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves – QMC. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 4662, Warwick, NY, the Greenwood Lake Elks Lodge and Defenders of Wildlife.
Appointed to the New York City Fire Department on October 23, 1965, his career was a testament to his commitment to both his duty and his beloved brotherhood of fellow firefighters. In 30 years, he left his impact on the members of Engine Company 60/Tower Ladder 17/Ladder 17-2, and as Lieutenant at Ladder 2 and Engine Company 84. He was awarded the FDNY Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal on June 6, 1985, as well as being cited on numerous occasions for heroism and bravery. He was a member of the FDNY Emerald Society, Holy Name Society and NYC Retired Firefighters of Orange County.
A family statement reads: “Our dad always said that life was meant to be enjoyed and no one did that more than him. From his love for his family to his long-lasting friendships, his affinity for all of God’s creatures and his enthusiasm for his favorite teams (the Mets, Giants, Rangers and Notre Dame football.) He lived life with an every-day passion that made us all very proud. His humor was contagious and his hearty laugh will forever echo with family and friends. He smiled through the pain and showed strength and love right up until his last days with us.”
Visitation will be on Sunday, April 22nd, from 3-5 & 7-9 pm at Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Avenue, Warwick Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am on Monday at St. Stephens RC Church, Warwick, followed by private cremation.
Memorial contributions can be made in Joe’s name to the New York City Firefighters Burn Center, c/o the Cornell Burn Center, 525 East 68th St., PO Box 137, New York, NY 10065. Please include your return address so that the memorial is acknowledged.