Robert McLaughlin Obituary

It´s 2024 and I still think of Father Bob fairly often. Reading everyone´s comments from 2005, some from people I knew from Mater Christi, it´s easy to picture Father Bob in all their sweet and moving recollections. He married my husband, Jim,and me at Mater Christi and baptized two of our kids at Holy Name Cathedral. When I was younger though, is when he really made an impression on me. The way he carried himself - greeting everyone with a big smile and sparkling eyes, always caring and plugged in to everyone else´s needs. He made me feel welcome, especially in situations where I felt awkward. He was just a really good soul!

I remember growing up with the

McLaughlin family. What wonderful

people. We went to St.Francis of

Rome in Cicero. I remember Bobby

visiting out home room, and Sister

asking him to sing for us. What a

beautiful voice he had. When moving to North Riverside, was delighted to see him again at Mater

Christi, as a priest. His award is

being reunited with God and his family. We will pray for you and keep you in our hearts and mind.

Love From, Jerry and Josie Mortell

of Green Valley Arizona.

Father "Red" McLaughlin,



You were a young and vibrant leprechaun of a priest when I first met you in 1969 through my brother Michael (Quigley North Class of '73). Bright like a new copper penny, you later taught me the inate goodness that human beings have within them and how we can share that goodness, mercy, and love with others. You were part of the Keane family for many years, finally ending as pastor of Mary Seat of Wisdom Church in Park Ridge. Our Church. The Church where my journey as a Catholic began. I remember your skills as a baseball player and caoch, your enthusiasm in broaching the hidden meanings in "Catcher in the Rye" and the wily dealings of young Mr. Caufield while I was a student (Quigley North Class of '77). Thank you for allowing me to serve the Church at Holy Name and always being a mentor to me.

Saint Patrick's Day remebrances to ye, Father McLaughlin.



You are missed, and are in our thoughts, especially on St. Patrick's Day.



- The Sweeney Clan, North Riverside

We had the pleasure of knowing Bob first at Holy Name Cathedral and then as our parish priest at Mater Christi in North Riverside. We were deeply touched by his loving kindness and memorable smile. We have lost a great man but Heaven is rejoicing. Our hope is that his family will take comfort that Bob passed the test with honors and has moved on to his great reward.

In 1977, at the age of 10, I had heart surgery at Children's Memorial Hospital. Our associate pastor, Fr. Bob, was such a help to my mom, and sat by her side during the difficult days before and after my surgery. I remember his kind face as he blessed me before surgery, and fortunately, a few years ago I was able to thank him for all he did for us. As I did so, on the steps of Holy Name, we both had tears in our eyes.



What an enormous loss for our Church, and what a reward he has surely gone on to receive. We think of you often, Fr. Bob, and though we mourn, we are grateful to know we have a new advocate in heaven.

What a great loss to the people of Chicagoland! What a great gain for heaven! Bob is one of the few people who have made lasting impressions and a positive influence on many lives in his time here. My sincere condolances and prayers to his family and many, many friends.

Countless memories of

a man among men.

Deep peace of the running waves to you.

Deep peace of the flowing air to you.

Deep peace of the smiling stars to you.

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you.

Deep peace of the watching shepherds to you.

Deep peace of the Son of Peace to you.

--An Old Gaelic Prayer



We miss you, Father Bob. Ave!

Dear McLaughlin Family,

Bob's love, energy and deep faith came from and was nurtured by all of you. You were his wellspring.



We were the beneficiaries of your gifts to Red which sustained him throughout his priesthood.

How he particularly loved his nieces and nephews and was so proud of them. You kept him young in spirit!



He taught me to speak some words long ago at Quigley when he directed us in 1776.

"There are two creatures of value in this world; those with a commitment and those who require the commitment of others."

He taught me the words and then he showed me how to live them with joy over the past 30+ years of our friendship.

Peace brother,

More I cannot wish ya!

Our love & prayers to all the McLaughlins,

Mark & Mary and the Kids

The pipes have called and now we must bide... The music of this extraordinary man will continue to play in our hearts and accompany the special memories that we will always hold dear. What a privilege to have been with Fr. Bob on the Holy Name Cathedral pilgrimage to Belgium and Germany last October and to share some very special moments with him. Fr. Bob, we will always be grateful for your wise counsel, your friendship and the joy you brought to our hearts. It is our prayer that "He will raise you up on angels' wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of His hand." We extend our deepest sympathy to Fr. Ed, Jack and the McLaughlin family.

I WILL NEVER FORGET THE HAPPINESS FR. BOB ADDED TO OUR TRIPS TO IRELAND, GERMANY AND BELGIUM. COME RAIN OR SHINE, HIS SMILE AND BEAUTIFUL VOICE COULD BE HEARD TO ADD TO OUR JOY.

HE WILL ALWAYS HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART AND MEMORY. I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN HIM.

CAROL STARR (CATHOLIC PILGRIMAGES)

I had the privilege to attend mass at Holy Name Cathedral for 10 years and was always thrilled when Fr. McLaughlin was on the schedule to say the mass I was attending. I even had the distinct honor to say hello to him occasionally and to let him know how great it is to have him as Pastor of Holy Name Cathedral. I can only imagine the sense of loss his family and so many others are experiencing and I just wanted to offer my sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Fr. Bob. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be in his presence.

Couldn't find the words. Still can't, but would like to say thanks to Father Ed for his beautiful words of yesterday's sermon.

Fr. Ed McLaughlin,

Father Bob married my wife and me 27 years ago when he was at Mater Christi. 8 years later while he was at Niles College, he drove all the way to St. Scholastica Parish in Woodridge to baptize our first daughter.

7 years ago, I contacted him at Holy Name and asked him to join our family for dinner to

celebrate “our” 20th wedding anniversary. Today, I am so glad that he accepted our invitation.

We’ve watched him go from parish to parish and from assignment to assignment. He was an exceptional man and a wonderful priest and he will be missed terribly by those whose lives he touched. But, obviously God must have had a very important assignment for him in heaven.

Our prayers are with the entire McLaughlin family!

John, Caroline, Sarah & Amanda Adams

May the road rise to meet you

May the wind be always at your back

May the sun shine warm upon yur face

And the rain fall soft upon your fields

And until we meet again

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Fred and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Father McLaughlin. We just learned of this loss today (Sunday) when checking the priest schedule at Holy Name Cathedral. Father Bob presided at the Funeral of my husband's father and he married us almost 5 years ago at Holy Name Cathedral. He was a great man and will be greatly missed! May he fill heaven with the sound of music!

We are all better people for having known Fr. Bob. Among so many other things, Red was an outstanding and knowledgeable high school baseball coach at Quigley North. Few people have affected so many, so positively, so gradually, as Bod has. He was a man's man, a priest's priest, and a fearless leader for bringing about improvement in the Church and everywhere he was. He stood up to argue against every issue that he thought was not in the best interest of Jesus' smallest brothers and sisters. His nonjudgemental attitude was exemplary. Everything and everyone blossemed because of contact with his GREEN thumb! He is is God's Hall of Fame, and in the Great Friends Hall of Fame. Bob was as fine a person as has walked this earth. May his Family, and all of us, find comfort in knowing that he is enjoying the reward that he so richly deserves. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Let us try to live the way that he taught us.

Fr. Bob warmed our hearts and made Mary Seat of Wisdom Parish a home.



We loved his singing, especially before and after mass, his warm hugs, his strong positive outlook, and his strong faith in God.



We miss him and will never ever forget his love.



Tom, Mary, Kelly, Anna, Kati, & Michaela Kons

To dear Fr. Bob

Now the St. Frances of Rome Carnival can resume in God's school parking lot. It will be the greatest one of all. Sincerely, Evon

So so sorry about Bobby. Went to school with him and our parents worked the carnival every single year together as the two of us did also. It was Edna and Ray Von Driska and John Mc L. and Bob and myself. I pray for him and am also sick at this point and was going to ask him to be at my funeral Mass when the times comes. But he left before I did. Please accept my sympathy. There was not a better person in this world that Bob McLaughlin. Loved him dearly from grammer school on. Sincerely Evon Stone. 5493 Sw 191 st CT.

Dunnellon FL 34432

It was my sincere honor to have known Fr. McLaughlin, loved him, and called him my "friend." My family and I will miss him dearly...his effect on our lives and those that were touched by his kindness, grace, humility, wisdom, sense of humor, and beautiful song...is indelible.



"Tis easy to be pleasant when life flows by like a song...



...but the man worth while is the one who can smile, when everything goes dead wrong.



For the test of the heart is trouble and it always comes with years...



...and the smile that is worth the praises of earth, is the smile that shines through the tears."



With a heavy heart, I will forever cherish the memories and do my best to "keep smilin"

It's hard to sum up what Father Bob has meant in my life. I first met him as a fifth grade student at Mater Christi when he joined our parish. I gave my first confession to Father Bob, he confirmed me...married me...was there for the birth of my triplets, and my daughter 3 years later. Last December he was there when my father became seriously ill, and gave him last rights,(probably 3 times). When my father passed away he gave the most incredible funeral service showing how much he loved and respected my Dad...my family will never foget him singing the Irish Prayer at the end of the funeral with tears in his eyes saying......until we meet again.....we never expected it to be this soon. I hope that they are together now sharing an Irish joke or song. It's hard to imagine our lives without you, but we know you are the lucky one Father Bob! We will miss you. Our sympathies to Father Bob's family, you were truly blessed to have him as a part of your lives, as we all were!

Fr. Robert went along on teen club trips with us when he was Associate Pastor at Mater Christi some 25 years ago. He sang and performed with us in a production at Mater Christi last September. He was with us for all of the good and sad times in between. He never forgot us and we will never forget him. Keep smiling, Fr. Robert!

Father, you guided us and married us, and you will always be a special part of our lives. We'll miss you. All the best to the McLaughlin family, and our sincere condolences on your personal loss, one that must be felt deeply, as it is for many in Father's extended family.

My Sympathy is with the Mc Laughlin

Family.

Dear Fr. Ed & McLaughlin Family.

We were sorry to hear of Fr. Bob's passing. It is a great loss as he was a wonderful person. Our family will keep you in our prayers.



Rich, Jeanette, Barb, Joanne Rick & Mike Pach

Father Bob was deeply loved. Thousands of people waited in line to share condolences with the McLaughlin family in the last few days; there are thousands more that Father Bob touched with his caring ways, and his prayers. He married my husband, Bob Colvin, and I while he was our pastor at Holy Name. He was there for our entire family years later when our father died. The way he responded to our pain, and helped us through our loss was spiritual and strong. He was a holy man in today's world. He was comfortable with mayors, CEO's and the poor. He made them all laugh, and they all are richer for having met him. While a pastor at Holy Name he stood in the front of the Cathedral after every mass, smiling and talking to hundreds of people--somehow making each feel really special. Fr. McLaughlin was born to be a priest. He did what God wanted him to do, and may he now enjoy the peace and Paradise that he earned so richly in this life. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God enjoy the grace of God forever- Amen. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family and all he leaves behind.

My prayers and condolences to the McLaughlin Family; Bob's passing is a huge loss for you, the Church of Chicago and all of us who knew him. I shall never forget the day he was installed as pastor of Holy Name Cathedral.......when he used a stool so everyone could see him, not to mention his rendition of the Martyrology at Christmas Midnight Mass. He was very kind to me in those years and we have stayed in touch. He enjoyed the forwards I e mailed to him weekly of the writings of my friend, Bishop John Shelby Spong. I am confident he will continue to help and sustain us from his "better place."

My deepest sympathy to the McLauglin family. Fr. Bob was my teacher at Holy Name in the mid-60's and again at Loyola. My husband & I were married by him in 1974; he presided over my mother's funeral in 1975 and has been our touchstone over the years. May he rest in peace.

To the McLaughlin Family

My sincere condolences on the death of Father Bob. I was privileged to have known Bobby for 50 years. We went to 7th and 8th grade together at St.Francis of Rome School in Cicero, IL. We kept in touch periodically over the years, but somehow Bobby knew when his counsel was needed and would never fail to let me hear from him. He appeared at the funeral home when my Mom was being waked in 1985 because he read the death notice. Bobby was a kind, thoughtful, and considerate person and a great priest. Whenever I was in the Chicago area I would attend Mass wherever Father Bob was and was always inspired by his sermons and his smiles. His passing has been a great loss to so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

To Father Bobby

I will miss you so very much. And though I know I can't keep in touch via email anymore, I'll just raise my eyes and send my messages heavenward. As always, I'll keep smiling because I know you'll keep singing! See you again someday, Bob.

God Bless Father Red McLaughlin! My father, Bob Kerrigan, was a classmate of Father Red's at Quigley and Mundelein, and I grew up hearing what a wonderful person 'Red' was. I was honored to spend some time in December with Father Red and some of the Quigley friends. Father Red lit up the room when he walked in. He had a beautiful voice and a vibrant spirit. He will be greatly missed. Our prayers and deepest sympathy to the McLaughlin family at this difficult time.



Marie (Kerrigan) Ventura

My sincere condolences to Fr. Bob's family. I had the pleasure of knowing him throughout my years at Mater Christi. He was a kind and thoughtful priest who I will never forget. I will always remember him as THE BIG LITTLE MAN WHO WILL ALWAYS SHINE. thanks Fr. Bob for all your devoted support. Roger D

My deepest sympathy to Fr. Bob's family. thank you for all the wonderful years at Mater Christi.

Father Bob, To be in the hearts you leave behind..is not to die. Rest in peace. The Frank Fokta Family

Our condolences to the McLaughlin family on their loss of "Red"! I grew up with Bob attending St Francis of Rome School in Cicero,IL.

Bob was a little older but I watched his progress thru Quigley and Mundelein. He and his family were an inspiration to all of us attending the Seminary. There are no words to adequately tell Bob's story but a little bit of his life will go on in everyone that he touched. He is still singing and swinging the clubs....it's just on a much higher level....thanks for being who you were....john and vickie byrne

To the McLaughlin Family,

We are deeply saddened by the news of the sudden death of Fr. Red. We have loved him for years, since he married us 30 years ago and before that when he worked with the retreat program at St. Scholastica!! He will never be forgotten! His love, passion, and commitment have left a permanent mark in our hearts and souls.

Larry and Annette Heinz Rafferty and family (class of '70 SSA)

We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Fr. Bob. He truly touched the lives of all the people he knew. He will be missed by so many. We were truly blessed to have known such a great man.

Like some many kids who grew up in North Riverside during the '70's I am blessed to have known Fr. Bob and to say that he was the priest that married me. Fr. Bob did everything with great passion, patience and sincerity. Fr. Bob did more than take the time to meet you; he took the time to know you. Fr. Bob is a hero.

Our prayers and deepest sympathy to the McLaughlin family.

To the McLaughlin Family,

Our deepest sympathy to all of you. My daughter Vickie was Fr.Bob's last 8th grade class before he left O.L.G.C. She graduated 8th grade & our son graduated kindergarten w/Fr.Bob leading the way. I'll never forget the 8th grade girls being so upset b/c Fr.Bob made such a fuss over the little ones' graduation....he said,"It's such a special beginning for them, I have to fuss!" They even had caps & gowns, which the 8th graders didn't have. That was Fr.Bob, always making everyone feel special! We'll miss you Father.



Our Lady of Good Councel

Our daughter and her husband (Ed and Julie Richert and daughters) attend St Michael's Parish in Orland Park and we all want to express our thoughts and prayers to your family at the home going of Father Robert. God's special comfort to your family at this time.Our son Leo and His family see Father Ed at Incarnation Parish in Palos Heights too. Leo and Rosemary Dignan and families

I've known Fr. Bob for 28 years, since a student at Mater Christi. Of his many incredible gifts, the one that resonates most is that he was completely without judgment, prejudice or discrimination. Fr. Bob saw right past age, race, religion, finances, looks, background, personality, and directly into your heart. That's where all his relationships were based...in the heart. And with his permanent residency in mine, I am reminded of his truly God-like life of treating everyone in the most loving way. I am appreciative of every moment enjoyed with Fr. Bob, and wish his family and many friends peace.

Our prayers for Father Bob and

condolences and sincerest symphaty

to his family.

Former MSW Choir Members

I was so sad when we heard that Fr. Bob died. I was very honored to know Fr. Mc Laughlin and thought what a wonderful priest and person he was. We lost a wonderful gift!!

My deepest sympathy to the family of Father Bob who will forever have an impact on my life for all his kindness and support. It was an honor to know him. I will always remember him as "THE LITTLE BIG MAN WHO SHINED." ROGER DOHERTY

To the McLaughlin Family I realy believe Fr.Bob saved my daughters life back in 1983.Till this day I don't know the prayer he said over her in the hospital,but I felt it was the most sacred prayer.Because after it, I felt A peace never felt before. I wish that peace for the McLaughlin family at this time.

Our deepest sympathy to Father Ed & family at this sad time.

Father McLauglin, I will remember you as a great, great priest. A classic. As a seminarian, I often weighed the sacrifice of the priesthood with my need to fulfill my vocation. And you helped me make sense of it. You reminded us that we are all called, in some way, to a life of service. Thank you for your leadership, your guidance and your shining example.

Dear Fr. Ed and Family,

I was so terribly sorry to hear of your sudden loss. Please know you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.



Marilyn Hoffman & Family

The world is a better place because you were here. The lives you touched are better for having known you. You revitalized our parish with your enthusiasm, your wonderfully fresh and new ideas, and your sincere love for all people. You were TRULY a man of God, and an inspiration to all who knew you. You will always be loved. You will always be missed. Rest in Peace.



Our Sincere condolences to Father Ed and all the McLaughlins.



George, Rose, George Jr., Michelle and Jamie Preski

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish

Father McLaughlin Baptized me 29 years ago and through the Sacrament he touched the hearts of my aunts uncles and grandparents forever. Twenty seven years later, my husband and I were blessed to be married at Holy Name. My family and I owe our spiritual roots to Fr. McLaughlin. He is a holy man that changed our lives through his priestly devotion to the Sacraments and the Church. He will forever be a part of our history. I know he will continue to guide our spiritual journey from Paradise.

Father Bob was always a shining light at Mater Christi Parish. I served Mass with him as an Alter Boy, and he officiated at my wedding years later. The world is less with the loss of his smile. "Keep Smiling" in his memory. My deepest sympathy to his Family and many Friends.

My prayers and sympathy go out to the McLaughlin family. Bob was a wonderful pastor, friend and housemate at Holy Name Cathedral. He greatly blessed my life as well as so many others with his tremendous gifts: his commitment to the gospel of Jesus, his love of life, his laughter and his songs. Rest in peace my brother.

Truly saddened to hear about "Red"

McLaughlin's death. His spirit and daring during difficult days in the

Chicago church community gave the rest of us courage and hope.

Rest in God's embrace, dear man and

great priest!

We were priviledged to know Father thru St. Mary of the Woods, his second home while he was at Niles Seminary. I also spent some time with him while serving on our parish council when he was at Holy Name.

We have truly lost a great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

What a great loss!! such a forward looking man with a sparkle in his eye and laughter spread about. Thank you Fr. Bob for your wonderful leadership and spirituality in our deanery on the near north side. My prayers for you and all your family especially during this difficult time.

To The McLaughlin Family,

Our sincere sympathy on the loss of one of God's true representatives on earth. We were fortunate to know Fr. Bob when he served here are Mater Christi. What a great guy.

My deepest sympathy to Fr Bob's family and spiritual family. I was blessed with meeting this wonderful man @Mater Christi Church. And to this day I believe he was the greatest priest I have ever meet. He will truly be missed

We were so saddened to hear of Fr. Bob's passing. He married us and blessed our children and we will be forever grateful. His openness and unconconditional love set an example for all catholics. He will be truly missed. Our sympathies to his family.

My deepest condolences to the family of Father Bob.



Seven years ago Father Bob guided me through a long and often painful annulment process. His prayers, encouragement and support were simply God’s grace in my life. I’ll never forget the kindness in his blue eyes and spirit in his beautiful voice –especially when he married my husband Bill and me not so long ago at Mary Seat of Wisdom Church.



He was holy man, a strong man and a much loved priest. I grieved his loss once before in 2002 when I (and The Holy Name Cathedral Parish) lost him as Pastor.



So Father Bob, this time not such a tearful goodbye, but as St. Thomas Moore said:



“You pray for me and I will pray for you until we meet merrily again in heaven!”

I've known many priests in my lifetime but few as outstanding as Father McLaughlin. He was truly spiritual, fun-loving, caring and so open to all people. He was the kind of person who truly made a contribution to the Church, the people of God.

It was my privilege to serve with Fr. McLaughlin at Holy Name Cathedral as Dir. of Music. He was a great priest and wonderful humanitarian - his memory will be a blessing for all who knew him and had benefit of his vision and courage. R.I.P.

I was so sad to hear Fr. Bob had died. While at Mater Christi, he helped my family through the sudden passing of my father. Through the years he has remained a friend, had married myself and my siblings, and baptized our children. What a loss for all whose lives he touched. He was truly a wonderful person. We will miss him!!

My deepest sympathy to his family and the Archdiocese of Chiago.

We have lost a beautiful priest.

I knew him when he would come to St. Scholastica High School.

My prayers are with all of you.

Bob McLaughlin was a priest in every sense of the word. During the six years that I worked with him at Niles College, he was always ready to help & counsel. Even when he transferred, I could always reach him and count on his friendship & assistance. He is missed.

To Fr. Ed and The McLaughlin Family:

We share your loss. Fr. Bob will be so greatly missed, but will also remain in the hearts of all he touched forever.

Dear McLaughlin Family:



My condolences for your great loss. I got to know Father Bob as a parishioner at Holy Name Cathedral and can tell you that he was universally revered by everyone there. He was a giant of a man and his reason and charm will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Somehow the day always seemed brighter if you should happen to run into Father Bob. That big smile, the warm hello, the kiss on the hand for the ladies, the way he would just burst into song unexpectedly, were just some of the things that made him so wonderful to be around. Father Bob always found the time to stop and talk and inquire as to how everyone in the family was doing. All of us will truly miss Father Bob and all that he brought to each day, but know that we were ever so lucky to have had him as part of our lives. His uplifting spirit will live on in our family forever.

Father Bob was my classmate from kindergarden through 8th grade (Class of 1954) at St. Frances of Rome School, Cicero. Even back then his classmates had the pleasure of enjoying his Irish dancing and singing...and we knew then that he would become a Man of God, loved by many. How fortunate we classmates were in September 2004 to have our 50 year class reunion, with Father Bob at his parish church. Even tho the red hair and freckles were no longer visible I would have known him anywhere even after 50 years. God Bless You Bob.

Father Bob,

I want to thank you for coming into our hearts and our school and for being the kind, caring man that you proved to be. We will value your friendship and the time we had with you. Because of you, we will believe that we can achieve anything if we put our hearts and minds to it. Thank you, and may you rest in peace and continue to watch over us.

Our sadness is for those whose lives would have been touched by this heroic man. He was our friend and mentor. Red taoght us well. Our sympathy to Ed and the entire McLaughlin Clan, he loved you dearly. My only regret with this giant of a man was that he loved the Cubs.

Our sincerest sympathy to Father Bob's family and friends. We will never forget joining Mater Christi parish back in 1973 - when we all were young! Father Bob made Sunday mass an event to look forward to. He was a wonderful person, and made the world and everyone he touched better.

We thank you Fr. Bob for being such a great friend and a big part of our life both during happy and difficult times. We love you and will miss you terribly. Peace be with you. Holakovsky and Sime Family

You certainly have touched many lives, Dear Father Red. And that certainly was the Lord's plan for you. Now you are singing at the throne and I cannot imagine the harmony! Your peace and joy are great and your legacy will live on forever! Thanks from a life you touched at St. Scholastica's Academy....1970. You made a difference!

From the first time we met Father Bob at the door of Holy Name, to the moment he blessed our marriage....we have been truly blessed to have known Fr. Bob and shared our lives with him. He will be truely missed by us and many like us.

My deepest sympathys go out to the McLaughlin family. Father Bob was so wonderful, and loved by so many. I was only 11yrs old when my mom died and he was there for her, my family and me. He was not only a great pastor of our church but a dear friend to all. He will truely be miss by many.

Dawn Leahy (DiGrazia)

Class of 1984 (Our Lady of Good Counsel Scool)

Our deepest sympathies to the McLaughlin family for the loss your beloved Bob. I knew him as Fr. Bob at Mater Christi and thought he was the greatest priest ever. I will always remember him and will keep you in my prayers.

When Fr. Bob came to Our Lady of Good Counsel as pastor I was the principal of the school. He was another John the twenty-third as he opened the doors and windows and the parish flourished during his short stay. He was all that everyone has said and more. He was truly loved and responded in kind to all.

Fr. Ed I send my condolences to you and your family. We are all better for having met the McLaughlins.

Two days before my breast cancer surgery in 1998, I met Fr. McLaughlin at a golf outing. He blesssed me and wished me well. I am still here. Thank you, Fr. McLaughlin

MY SYMPATHIES TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY.

BOB WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR HIS FRIENDSHIP AND HIS HEARTY LAUGHTER. MAY HE REST WITH THE LORD.

To Fr. McLaughlin's family- My condolences to all the family. It is with great sadness to learn of Fr. McLaughlin's death. As a parishioner of Mary Seat of Wisdom, I looked forward to attending his masses. He had so much spirit and his homilies were always very interesting. He will definitely be missed by all!

To The McLaughlin Family:

We share your loss. Bob will be so greatly missed, but will also remain in the hearts of all he touched forever. How lucky we were to be able to call him friend!



I love you dear friend. Until we meet again....Now you are our angel.

Father Bob remains an inspiration! You are loved!

'Fr. Red' was a professor of mine at Quigley back in the early 70's. In that time of upheaval and new adventures, his wit and insight helped more than one hapless teenager get through it all .. he was a priest, an instructor and 'one of us'.

Dear Ed,

May God's Spirit of peace - the same Spirit that set Bob on fire with incredible joy and bold proclamation - be with you and your family. Oh, what a great loss to the Church of Chicago! May Bob sing forever as he sees God face to face!

Bob, Enjoy the Fairways of Heaven!

I was very lucky to meet him as a teen. I have never forgotten over the years his smile and love for people, he has deeply made my faith stronger and he will not be forgotten. My prayers are with you.

It was my pleasure to teach with Fr. Bob at Quigley thirty years ago. I especially remember this thoughtful man's concern for his students, his consistent good humor, his fiery competitive spirit and his tendency to break into song with little or no provocation. He will be greatly missed.

Dear Ed, and Family,

My deepest condolences on the death of Father Bob, as well as the recent death of your other brother, Tom. How difficult it must be for you. I have offered Mass today at St. James Hospital, Olympia Fields for Bob, a lifelong friend; we shared theological classes at Mundelein and always loved to chat; he named me "Mac" ages ago! Will miss his smile, Irish tenor and wonderful open-progressive spirit in the manner of Clete O'Donnell and Joseph Cardinal!

Ed McKenna

With sincere regret at the passing of a dear friend. We are all blessed because Father Bob's life enriched our lives in many, many ways. Our prayers go out to the family. With deep, deep regret, The Family of Frank T. Brady

My deepest sympathy to family. Fr. "Red" McLaughlin was my speech teacher at Quigley, an ardent supporter of the Class of '69, and a model of positive energy and enthusiasm. Thank you, father! God Bless you!

The sadness goes to the thousands of lives he would have touched. We were blessed to know such a great man and equally fine priest. Red taught us well. My deepest sympathy to Ed and his family, who he loved with great passion.

My wife, Peggy, and I extend our condolences to Fr. Ed (my old golf team coach and teacher at Niles College) and to the rest of Fr Bob's family. My first contact with Fr Bob was at Quigley in the mid 60's. Many great handball and golf matches ("Fr. Bob, How can you whistle after hitting such a terrible shot ???"). He was and continued to be a great role model, priest, and friend these past 40 years. God Bless.

Father McLaughlin was a "giant" of a man, with an even bigger heart. He will be dearly missed by all those who's life he touched, and he touched many. "Red" had a very significant influence on my life as a Teacher, Pastor, Coach, Play Director, Golf partner, but most of all a very dear friend. God Bless your family at this time as you celebrate his wonderful life and his next round in God's heavenly kingdom. Ted Powers QN 73

Our deepest sympathy to your family. "Red" was a classmate and friend to us all. I'm so thankful that I recently saw Red. He'll live on forever in our hearts and prayers. Rest his soul! Bob and Kathy Kerrigan, San Diego, CA

Fr. McLaughlin was a wonderful person supporting my family upon my father's death in 1997. Our condolences to you and your family.

It's true that Father Bob lived his life singing. He was pastor of Mater Christi parish in North Riverside when my husband grew up there. When Scott asked him to officiate our wedding at our parish in Glen Ellyn, he graciously agreed. The first time I met him, he came out of his office at Holy Name singing "More I Cannot Wish You" from Guys and Dolls. I told him I loved that song...I had been in the play in high school. So, we finished singing it together. We had never really spoken to each other, yet there we were singing together. Later, he included those meaningful words in his homily during our wedding mass. He was a wonderful man, priest, and teacher. We'll never forget him.

Father Bob was truly a priest of the people.



It was a privilege to have known and loved Father Bob.

We have lost a caring, compassionate friend. He will fondly be remembered for moving homilies, a sense of humor, a quick smile, Parish Missions that brought the people to their feet and a true understanding for those he met.

Red was a Godly man - he was everyones man......he touched lives with his beautiful spirit and his great sense of humor. I had the pleasure of knowing Red for 35 years - from the days when he taught at Quigley Seminary thru to MSW. It's been a honor to know him. His spirituall guidance helped me be a better woman. His beautiful Irish ballads and his hymns inspired us all. Thanks Red for your loving support and for always signing off our phone conversations with "keep smilin"......we all loved you.