Robert (Mac) Richard McLaughlin, 72, passed away Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at his home in Idaho Falls, ID.
Robert was known by many nicknames, such as Bob, Bobby, Serg. and Top, but most referred to him as Mac.
Mac was born on December 23, 1948 to CSM Herman W. and Pauline (Blyer) McLaughlin in Steelton, PA. Mac served our nation in the US Army for 21 years and retired as a Master Sergeant.
He also had the honor of serving beside his father in Vietnam. After retirement from the US Army, he worked as a mine mill maintenance mechanic and retired with Newmont after 20 years of service.
Mac was known for his mechanical aptitude. He loved muscle cars, including his Pontiac Firebird Trans Am T-Top.
His love for motorcycles started when he was young and carried into his retirement days, a favorite hobby he enjoyed with his wife, Donella.
It is a wonder how one person could be so serious, yet such a jokester.
Under his gruff exterior, Mac was a very giving person. He was always willing to help those he cared about.
He was always someone you could lean on for advice and mentorship. He instilled many important values, such as respect in so many lives.
Mac is survived by the following: his loving wife, Donella McLaughlin (Cross) of Idaho Falls, ID, sister, Michelle (Herb) of California, brothers, Michael (Shelley) and Pat of Utah, children, Heather of Pennsylvania, Robert Jr. of Nevada, Chad and Chelsey of Utah, grandchildren, Ethan of Nevada, Becca of Utah and Aariah of Oklahoma, plus several other grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends and of course his four-legged kids, Jack and Bailey, who all loved Mac dearly.
Per Mac’s request, formal services will not be held.
There will be a private family viewing on Friday, February 26, 2021 at Wood Funeral Home and Crematory in Ammon, ID.
A celebration in Mac’s honor will be planned for a later date, at which time details will be posted on his and Donella’s Facebook pages.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in his name to Disabled American Veterans online at dav.org
