Donald Ray McLaughlin

June 3, 2024

Donald Ray McLaughlin, 84, passed away on Monday, June 3, 2024, with his wife by his side.

Donald was born to the late Raymond McLaughlin and Elizabeth Johnson McLaughlin on February 12, 1940, in Everett, Massachusetts.

He married and raised his family in Central New York and had a successful career as a Quality Control Engineer. He retired from Anaren Microwave in 1999 and moved to Charlotte, NC to play golf and enjoy his hobbies. Donald was passionate about woodworking. His artistry was expressed through the beautiful pieces he created. When Don wasn’t in his workshop, you could find him on his lawn mower, ensuring he had the nicest yard on the block.

Donald was best known for his gruff nature, dry humor and incredible generosity. Nobody ever left his house empty-handed (even the raccoons). Donald took good care of his family and was notorious for popping out his teeth and making a funny face if anyone needed a laugh. He was very loved, and he will be missed.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Andrea Pospiech McLaughlin; his daughters; Kellie Smith and husband Tim, Karen Reilley and husband Paul, his grandchildren; Spencer, Quinn, Jeffrey, Gregory and Elizabeth, his sisters; Eleanor DeCarney and Betty Braese, and his dog, Oscar.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey McLaughlin; and siblings Robert, Lorraine Johnson, Muriel Pifalo, Carol LaMontagne; and his beloved dog Jackie.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Sue Seiffert

    There were fun times in Village Green! How about our dinners with all the planning and decorating?

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  • Susan Amaral

    I am so sorry to hear this!! Always Loved Don!! So Handsome! Sweet! And kind!! May your memories bring a smile to your face!! Love to All

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  • Christa DeBottis

    Dear Andrea and Family,
    What wonderful memories you have !
    My condolences are sent with a Prayer. Your Neighbor in the 1960th, Christa ♡

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  • Janet Mercer

    Andrea, I lost my husband, Bob, last September. I wish I had thought to let my friend on Facebook know. I truly understand your journey. Would love to do lunch here in Windsor Rum in Matthews in time. Janet

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  • Barbara Pifalo

    I was so sorry to hear that Uncle Donald had passed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
    Sending you all lots of love.
    Barbara Pifalo

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  • Debbie Michlin

    Andrea and family,
    I am very sorry for the loss of Don. I remember him as a kind, gracious person. He made me several gifts over the years from his wood shop. They were very special to me.
    My condolences to you, your children and your grandchildren for the loss of a great man.
    Kindest regards,
    Debbie Michlin

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  • Shelly Prentice

    Uncle Don made the best Sub sandwiches ever...and he also made sure I never put ketchup on my steaks...he only had to tell me that once....these are only a few memories of many that I have of him.....he was always so kind to me and my kids and treated us all as if we were his own. His wood work was exceptional and he was so proud of his creations...speaking of being proud, Uncle Don was so proud of his children and grandchildren as he should have been and loved Aunt Dede so much...wow..58 yrs of marriage...what a huge accomplishment❤️..he was loved and will be missed by so many...Rest In Peace Uncle Don❤️?

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