Obituary of Patrick McLaughlin

Patrick Joseph McLaughlin was born on October 23, 1967 in Dearborn the youngest of five children to Michael and Karen (Ainslie) McLaughlin. He was baptized at St. Michael church and was educated at Jefferson Elementary and St. Mary's School where he received his first communion. Patrick then attended Monroe High School. On February 13, 1988 he married Julie M. Bowman, and together the couple shared in the birth of three sons. Pat took employment in 1988 at the Ford Motor Company at the Wayne Assembly Plant. He was a proud member of United Auto Workers Local 900. He took a medical retirement in 2002 to receive a kidney transplant. Pat was a gifted writer and enjoyed composing poetry, riding his Harley Davidson, spending time Up North at the family cottage and with his family. He was a loyal friend and family member. He was known to be very generous with his time and often put others first. For many years he had the privilege to coach his boys in hockey and baseball. Even though Pat had been given poor health he lived each day to the fullest and never gave up. He had a warm infectious smile and loved to laugh and make others laugh. One of his favorite pastimes was detailing cars and bikes. Patrick Joseph McLaughlin, age 48, of Monroe passed away on Saturday morning at his home following a long illness. His passing was preceded by his maternal grandparents: Carl and Deliase (Philippart) Ainslie; paternal grandparents: Michael and Dorothy (Houthoofd) McLaughlin; uncles: Thomas Ainslie II and Duane McLaughlin; and a cousin: John Ainslie III. To cherish his memory he leaves three sons: Brandon of Monroe, Cory (Emily) of Newport, and Drew of Monroe; his parents: Michael and Karen McLaughlin; two sisters: Erin (Alan) Copi of Monroe and Kathleen (Ronnie) Turner of Carleton; two brothers: John Michael (Lisa) and Daniel (Lisa) both of Monroe; many special nieces and nephews; and his four-legged companion: his boxer: Roscoe. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am on Thursday, March 10, 2016 also at Merkle's with Pastor Roy Southerland officiating. Memorial donations are suggested to Gift of Life. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.