Obituary of Robert T. McLaughlin

McLaughlin, Robert T. "Bob" –peacefully on Mar. 29, 2020, age 94, of Williston Park, NY. Robert T. McLaughlin (Bob) was born September 10, 1925 in Corona, NY to the late John and Margaret Keegan. He attended Our Lady of Sorrows School in Corona, and went on to attend Cathedral Prep, Brooklyn, with the intention of entering the priesthood. However, as did many other members of The Greatest Generation, he enlisted in the US Navy to serve his country in World War II. He lied about his age (17,) and withdrew from Cathedral Prep (His mother received his diploma from Flushing High School a few months later) to begin his tour of duty aboard the USS Terry, a Naval Destroyer, from 1943 to 1946. In March1945, his ship sustained a devastating attack near Iwo Jima. Bob carried many of the memories of horrendous attacks, and the cries of his injured and dying shipmates many who were, like him, very young men for the rest of his life. Upon his discharge from the Navy, Robert became one of New York City's Finest. During his 22 years as a New York City Police Officer, he was awarded 15 Citations, including The Medal of Honor. He retired in 1970 as a Captain Detective, and became Vice President of a major US Trucking and armored car company. During the ensuing years, he wrote three novels, all based upon his experiences in the NYPD. More important than his service to our country and to the City of New York, was his love for his Church and his family. He married Marie "Tootsie" Fox, the love of his life, in Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Corona, NY on October 1, 1949. Together they raised eight children: two bookend daughters and six sons. They worked hard to ensure that all of their children received a Catholic education up to, and including, college. No matter what, his Catholic Faith endured. In the years following his retirement, Bob and Marie traveled the US as well as Italy and Ireland. They enjoyed many summers at their Bungalow in Nassau Point, NY. Bob was feisty with a sometimes sarcastic, sense of humor even in his final days, when speaking proved very difficult. To see him with one of his grandchildren or great-grandchildren was touching. This strong tough guy melted when he had a baby in his arms. He and Marie passed this love of children on to their children. Robert was predeceased by his beloved Tootsie in May 2017. He leaves to mourn him his eight children: Margaret Farrell (the late Patrick), Robert Jr., Michael (Susan), Thomas (Rosemary,) Neal (Cecelia), Vincent (Belinda), Kevin (Maureen) and Susan McAuliffe (Timothy). He is also survived by former daughter-in-law, Julie. The legacy continues in his grandchildren: Kevin Farrell (Meredith), Brian Farrell (Elizabeth), Dana, Meredith Colin (Kerri), Matthew, Jenna, and Dylan, Thomas Jr. and Brendan, Caroline, Colleen McCarthy (Cullen), Kelly, Courtney Burgess (William), Kathleen, Hannah, Conor, Liam, Catherine, and Meghan McAuliffe. and great-grandchildren: Caitlin, Erin, and Patrick Farrell, Cullen, Declan, and Kiera McCarthy, Rowan and Merrick McLaughlin. Dear brother of the late John, Joseph, and Thomas. And until we meet again, may God Hold you in the palm of His hand. Mass cards appreciated, or donations to any of the following: tunnel2towers.org, woundedwarriorproject.org, or the charity of one's choice. Please make a random act of kindness in memory of Bob McLaughlin. At this time, the family acknowledges with much gratitude and great affection the "angels" who cared for our beloved father with tenderness during his final days: Gail, Ann Marie, Adela—but most especially Basia, who, for over four years, has been a constant and faithful caregiver to Dad, and to our Mom before him.

In light of the current circumstances the family will be keeping the Funeral Services private. A Funeral Mass and Military Honors will be held at a later date.