John Scott Mclaughlin

John Scott McLaughlin was a loving family man, successful business manager, and friend to many. He was disciplined and diligent as well as fun loving and easy going. His enjoyment of life centered on the happiness of those around him. Scott accomplished much in his lifetime, most in service to others. Scott was born to John and Florence (Petersen) McLaughlin in Muskegon, Michigan on September 18, 1942. At that time, World War II dominated American life, and as men went off to war and women were drawn into the workplace, the nation pulled together to make life as good as possible for the next generation. With Johns job as a foundry worker and foreman at CWC and Florences work as an artist, they created a secure environment for their children: David, John Scott, Cathie and Joe. The four siblings enjoyed spending lots of time together, and as a result, they remained close into adulthood. Living on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan, Scott started fishing and boating at an early age. His love for the water only increased as he grew older, and with it, his passion for car racing. It was that combination of relaxing and high energy sports that also characterized his personality and way of looking at life. He was both driven and laid back. Scott graduated from North Muskegon High School in 1960 and attended Muskegon Junior College from 1960 to1962. In 1963, he began working at Westran Foundry, but his career was interrupted by the Vietnam War. Scott was in the National Guard from 1964 to1970, and when he completed his military service, he went back to work at Westran. As the business changed names over the yearsfrom Westran to West Michigan Steel to Michigan SteelScott advanced from broom-pusher to executive. When he retired in 2003, he received the gratitude of a company he had faithfully served for 40 years. The steel manufacturing business was good for Scott for another reason. One day at work, he was whistling down a hallway and met a lovely young woman by the name of Ann Sylvia Light. It didnt take long for the two of them to strike up a friendship that turned into love and commitment. Scott and Ann made their vows of marriage on January 22, 1972, and their lives were further blessed with three beautiful children: Anne, Mary and John. Scott was an effective parentconservative and wise, calm and smart. Whenever his kids asked for something, he immediately said no. But actually, he was buying himself time to process the request, and his answer usually changed. Scott was very proud of his children, and they in turn regarded him not only as their father but a friend. The closeness of the family was due in part to Scotts investment of time and understanding. He taught his children to value education and to pursue knowledge on many levels. He himself was a WWII history buff, who could research so much more with the introduction of the worldwide web. He passed on his enjoyment of classical music and taught his children a lot of what he knew. He shared his enthusiasm for the outdoors by teaching his children about boating and insisting that they become proficient sea mates by taking boater safety courses and sailing lessons. Every summer weekend, weather permitting, the family was on the boat Family Affair, making memorable trips up north to Harbor Springs and Beaver Island. Life at home was also a family affair. Sunday dinners and holidays were wonderful occasions for the family to be together. Always, Scott played master griller and ultimate hostcooking the food he loved and thoroughly enjoying a great party, especially garage parties. Scott was always there for his children and grandchildren. If one of them was building a deck, he would come and help. If he was called to pick up the grandkids from school, he would be there for sure. He made himself available to watch them all the time, and up until a few days before his death, Scott was taking care of his beloved grandchildren. Scott died Monday, July 26, 2010 at the age of 67. He truly loved life, and he will be missed by his dear family and cherished friends. Mr. John "Scott" McLaughlin, of North Muskegon, Michigan, is survived by his wife of 38 years, Ann; children, Anne (Matt) Tyson, Mary (Chris) Eyke, John (Amber) McLaughlin; grandchildren, Kat, Max and Logan Tyson, Jack, Lucy and Charles Eyke; brothers, Joe (Deb) McLaughlin, David (Terri) McLaughlin; sister, Cathie (Tony) Ferro; aunts, Muriel Kintner, Rae Gudelsky; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and Gus, his traveling dog. He was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Madeline Loegan Tyson in 1999. Funeral service will be held Saturday, July 31, 2010, 10:00 AM at Clock Life Story Funeral Home - Muskegon. Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice or North Muskegon Public Schools c/o Muskegon County Community Foundation. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book.