It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Gary "Jim" McLaughlin. Born on August 24, 1946, Gary left us peacefully on October 16, 2023.

A family man at his core, Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Deborah (Pottorff) McLaughlin, whom he married in 1989. His legacy continues through his children, Christine McLaughlin, Jeffery McLaughlin, Susanne Lake, Leigh Holmer, and Brian Bendig. He was a beloved father-in-law to Jessica Bendig and Bret Holmer.

His spirit lives on in his cherished grandchildren; Elizabeth McLaughlin, Gwenevere Mueller, Naomi Harris, Lorelei (Boice) Innes, Connor McLaughlin, Trevor Bendig, Arabella Lake, Gauge Hartig, and Rylee Bendig. He was the proud great-grandfather of three girls, Briella, Ember, and Rhiannon. Gary is survived by his sister, Caroline Hall; sister-in-law, Terri Johnson; mother-in-law, Donna Pottorff, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Arlene McLaughlin, and his brother, Donald McLaughlin.

Graduating from North Branch High School in 1964, Gary's zeal for learning (and a desire to get off the farm) led him to pursue Accounting at Michigan State University, in East Lansing, MI, where he graduated in 1976. While attending MSU, he worked as an electrician at the Oldsmobile plant in Lansing. 

After moving to Grayling, MI in 1976, his contributions to the community were significant. After working at an accounting firm, Gary and his former wife Patricia (McDowell) McLaughlin purchased the Grayling Dairy Queen, which stayed in the family for 30 years. They also owned the Ole Dam Rd. Party Store and constructed the Timber Rapids adventure golf course. Gary spent many years serving as a member and president of the Rotary Club of Grayling. He was an active member of Grayling Country Club.

A lover of sports, Gary was a steadfast supporter of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Michigan State Spartans, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Cardinals. He was also known for his dry sense of humor, his ability to achieve the remarkable - a hole-in-one at Arrowhead Country Club, and his endless knowledge of current events, sports scores, and life advice. Some of his best advice included, “Always check the ketchup,” a testament to his unique sense of humor. Gary loved to travel and took many cruises, and trips to Hawaii. He visited all 50 states.  His most frequent trip was to Las Vegas, where he would always win at blackjack and poker. 

In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established in Gary's honor for the Lewy Body Dementia Association. Contributions may be made at the following web address https://everloved.com/life-of….

His legacy, one of love, knowledge, humor, and a true dedication to family will live on in the hearts and memories of those who had the privilege to know him.

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