F. Richard 'Dick' McLaughlin

Frank Richard Dick' McLaughlin, born to Frank and Mary McLaughlin on October 13, 1920, in Steelton, PA, passed from this life on April 4, 2010.   He attended Steelton H.S., F&M Academy and Gettysburg College.   He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and served his country bravely in the Pacific Campaign, based in Pavuvu in the Solomon Islands.   Following WWII he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania to study law.   He eventually joined the FBI as a special agent.   During his college days he was the Pennsylvania State Champion wrestler.   He has been a school teacher, an FBI agent and President of the ex-FBI association.   He was director of security for all the May Co. stores in California.   He has been an actor, a singer / dancer, a choir director and played instruments in many bands.   A local newspaper had this to say about him: ""But, what in all its complexity is a Dick McLaughlin?   It is one part feisty curmudgeon, outspoken and prone to pulling no punches; part born again theatrical trooper involved in the stage after a hiatus of many years; part former FBI agent who once grilled the father of the atomic bomb, Robert Oppenheimer; part small-time security expert; part marching band enthusiast with multi-instrumental capabilities; part world wanderer, and all in a guy with a finely-tuned sense of humor that is grounded in a multiplicity of worldly experience.""   He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Doris (infant) and a brother, Donald.   He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Doris Leoda (Shields) of Gettysburg, PA, and 3 children, Karen Bess, F. Richard Rick' McLaughlin, and Daniel (Judy) McLaughlin; 4 grand daughters, Krista (Jon) Loye, Erin (Andrew) Fawley, Alissa and Megan McLaughlin; and many extended family members and friends.   His specific request is that no memorial service be conducted and that each of his many friends honors him privately, in a manner reflecting the esteem in which Dick was held.   His body will be donated to science as he wished.   He will be celebrated at a later date with a private family service along with military rites.   In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to your favorite charity in his name.   Dick leaves a legacy of love and integrity with his family and those who knew him.   God demonstrated his loving care with all those that have helped us through this difficult time.   We would specifically like to thank Loretta, Neil and the many caregivers from Care Wisconsin, BrightStar, Southern Care Hospice and Sara with the McFarland Senior Outreach who all helped him remain at home.   Dick has left behind wonderful memories of a loving grandfather, father and husband.   We are grateful for each and every day we got to see his glowing smile, for the lessons learned and jokes shared.   We will miss him more than words can express.   Thanks Dad! We love you. Be at peace. One or other must leave, one or the other must stay, one or the other must grieve, that is forever the way.   That is the vow that was sworn, faithful til death do us part.   Braving what has to be borne, widening the ache in the heart.   One how so ever adored, first must be summoned away.   That is the will of the Lord- one or the other must stay!                      -Author Unknown