There is an air of sadness across Inishowen and Donegal following the sudden and unexpected death of local businessman Charlie ‘Mick’ McLaughlin.
Late of Rockstown, Tooban, Charlie will be remembered as a friendly but astute man who lived for his family and friends.
He was the driving force behind McLaughlin Car Breakers and Dismantlers which became the go-to service for many car owners across the region.
Charlie was just 64 when he passed away on his birthday yesterday, St Patrick’s Day.
He boasted to many that he was the only person born on the day of Ireland’s patron saint who wasn’t called Patrick or Paddy!
Having spent a lifetime developing his business, Charlie was beginning to take things a little slower and was happy to pass the business on to the next generation.
When not working, he spent his later days with his family in and around the family home in Tooban.
But he liked taking to the road too.
Be that in a camper van, on the water in a boat or on one of his four or five electric bikes, Charlie always had time for a chat and a cuppa.
Be it to Downings or to the Ploughing Championships, people found Charlie easy company, a man who took life in his own stride and never judged others.
Charlie is survived his loving wife Kathleen and his children Charles, Aoife, Debra, Odhran and was predeceased by his son PJ.
He is the dear son of Vera and the late Jimmy McLaughlin.
Mr McLaughlin will also be forever missed by his brothers, sisters, grandchildren, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, extended family, friends and neighbours.
Charlie’s remains will be reposing at his home tomorrow Wednesday, 19th March from 12 noon where you are all welcome to pay your respects.
Removal from there on Friday morning, 21st March at 10.15am to St. Mura’s Church, Fahan for Requiem Mass at 11.00am followed by interment in the adjoining graveyard.
Requiem Mass can be viewed on www.churchservices.tv/Fahan.
May you rest in peace, Charlie.
