Funeral services for Peter “Sweet Pete” McLaughlin, age 73, of Punta Gorda, FL, will be held on February 23, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. at Frary Funeral Home at with Rev. Spike Bateman officiating. Calling hours will be held on February 22, 2011 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Frary Funeral Home. Burial will be at Notre Dame Cemetery in the spring. Mr. McLaughlin passed away on Monday, February 14, 2011.

Mr. McLaughlin is survived by his children, Brad McLaughlin and Robin(Andy) Irvine; three grandchildren, Sarah McLaughlin, Zachary Herbick, and Michael Herbick; two cousins with whom he was raised, Sally Palerno and Mickey Greco; and two nephews, James McLaughlin and Steven McLaughlin.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Michaleen McLaughlin in 1995; his brother, Neal McLaughlin in 2009; and his very close cousin, Peggy Dolan.

Mr. McLaughlin was born on August 11, 1937 in Ogdensburg, the son of James and Mary Caufield McLaughlin. He graduated from Heuvelton Central School. Pete was a retired veteran of the U.S. Army serving his country with pride. He worked for the State of New York retiring as the Supervisor of Grounds.

Pete was a Life Member of B.P.O. Elks Lodge 2606, Punta Gorda where he was Volunteer of the Year and was bestowed the honor of Citizen of the Year. He was also a member of Moose Lodge 1693, and the American Legion 103 both of Punta Gorda, the AMVETS, V.F.W., and Knights of Columbus Council 258 of Ogdensburg.

Pete enjoyed his summers in New York spending time at Black Lake with his family and friends. He was very proud of his Irish heritage always taking time to celebrate the good things life had to offer him.

Pete always loved to have a good time and made friends where ever he visited. If you were lucky enough to have known Pete, count your blessings and continue to honor him by enjoying life to the fullest.