JOHN ALLAN MCLAUGHLIN

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JOHN ALLAN MCLAUGHLIN It is with deep sadness his family must share the news that John Allan McLaughlin, aged 82, passed suddenly, March 21, 2018, at Concordia Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Betty Marie; daughters, Sharon (Newton) and Maureen (Boyd); beloved grandsons, John Mitchell, William and Connor Brearley; brother Garry McLaughlin; brothers and sisters-in-law: Jean and Edward Rybak; George and Linda Wusaty; Darlene Wusaty and John Downing, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Edward and Hilda (Critchlow); brothers, George, Robert (Donna) and Edward (Arlene); and in-laws, Harry and Anne Wusaty. Allan was born in St. Boniface, in May 1935. Raised in Elmwood during the difficult days of the Depression and the Second World War, he had many memories of an active childhood. He was a Cub Scout, participated in and was a fan of many sports. He was a keen follower of current events, politics and financial news. Educated at Polson and Lord Selkirk Schools, he excelled in math and drafting, aspiring to accountancy. He began his work life early, first at Eaton's Cafeteria and the CPR office. At 16, he accepted an opportunity to apply his mechanical skills as a machinist apprentice with the Canadian Pacific Railway in Thunder Bay. Returning to Winnipeg as a Journeyman, he worked at the Winnipeg Diesel Shop, retiring in 1991 with 40 years' service as Program Supervisor. Allan was one of the few who transitioned from steam to diesel locomotives, and his work took him to many places in Canada and the U.S. In the early 1950s, he served in the RCAF Reserve, training in signals for the DEW Line. A 25 year member of the Royal Canadian Legion Transcona Branch, he also enjoyed passing time at Elmwood Legion. Allan worked on trains, maintained many cars and was interested in airplanes and aviation. Allan met Betty 60 years ago, marrying her in 1963. Their early life together was spent in Elmwood, buying their first home in Transcona, in 1968. Together they participated in the CPR Supervisors' Club. A devoted father, he always found time to help his daughters with their activities. Together they attended Transcona Memorial United Church. Allan took pride in their achievements and they are grateful for his work to provide the opportunity to find success. He welcomed their husbands. He found great joy in his grandsons. He relished his role as Uncle Allan. A man happiest at home, Allan was always curious about what was down the open road - travelling on the train to British Columbia and California. Family driving vacations as near as Lake Winnipeg, and as far as The Rockies, and visits to his children's homes in New Jersey, Ontario and Alberta. An avid photographer, he captured treasured memories and happy times. Allan tackled many repairs with precision, always available to lend a hand on a project or instruct on how to get it done to the end. His mechanical knowledge was also helpful to his in-laws on their farm. Childhood experience in the family garden grew into his later work with Betty planting trees and vegetables. The backyard welcome was laid out and he looked forward to the first birds of spring. Allan survived lung cancer in 2005. He faced health challenges that would have daunted others. His family would like to thank the neighbours, family and friends for their help, including medical professionals and home care. Thanks to Rev. Carol Fletcher for your support and hospital visits. Funeral service will be held Monday, March 26, Transcona Memorial United Church, 209 Yale Ave. W., 10:30 a.m. Allan was a life-long contributor to many charities. Please consider following his example by making a donation in his memory to Transcona Memorial United Church (Building Fund), the Canadian Cancer Society (Manitoba), Heart & Stroke Foundation or one of your choice.
Publish Date: Mar 24, 2018

JOHN ALLAN MCLAUGHLIN Suddenly, on March 21, 2018, age 82. Husband of Betty Marie McLaughlin. Funeral service to be held Monday, March 26, 10:30 a.m., at Transcona Memorial United Church, 209 Yale Avenue West. Full obituary to follow Saturday, March 24, Winnipeg Free Press. Wheeler Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Publish Date: Mar 23, 2018

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 24, 2018