Obituary of Gale Sherwood McLaughlin

It is with sadness the family announces the passing of Gale Sherwood McLaughlin, husband of Norma (Gordon) McLaughlin of Grand Manan which occurred on Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at the Grand Manan Hospital. Born in Seal Cove, Grand Manan he was a son of the late Gerald and Doris (Wilcox) McLaughlin. Gale graduated from Dalhousie University in Halifax, NS before returning to Grand Manan to join the family businesses as a general merchant, lobster buyer and weir fisherman. He was involved in local politics serving briefly as a MLA in the New Brunswick Legislative Assembly and was involved with several island causes related to transportation, senior housing and the fishery. He represented theWeir Sectorof the Grand Manan Fishermen’s Association from 1986-2016. He was a founding member of the Grand Manan Curling Club, Grand Manan Rotary Club, member of the Grand Manan Historical Society and a long time Director of the Rotaty Isle Estates. He was an early supporter and long-time member of the Grand Manan Art Gallery. In recent years, Gale joined the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 44 Grand Manan, as an associate member out of respect for so many islanders, including his father, who had served. He attended the Seal Cove United Baptist Church. Gale greeted everyone with a smile and a nod of the cap. Always with a pocketful of peppermints to share, he enjoyed telling stories of island history and lore. His stories are cherished and will be missed. Besides his wife, he is survived by two sons: Brian McLaughlin (Catherine) of Saint John, Shayne McLaughlin (Anna-Marie) of Grand Manan; four grandchildren: Nicholas Ling, Daniel, Dorothy and Sarah McLaughlin, two great-grandchildren and special uncle to several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents he was predeceased by one brother, John, and their close cousin Sarah (Sally) Foster. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424). To honour Gale’s request there will be no funeral home visitation or service. Interment will take place in Hillside Cemetery, Grand Manan at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to Camp Rotary, Grand Manan Hospital Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be placed at www.BrenansFH.com.