It is with great sorrow we announce the death of David C. McLaughlin of Chelsea, MI. He passed away unexpectedly on May 27, 2022 at the age of 78 in his beloved hometown. David was an adored husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and attorney. He was born in Chelsea, MI on March 6, 1944, son of Jean F. (Dancer) McLaughlin and Russell A. McLaughlin.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 50 years, Jane Marie McLaughlin; loving father of Christine (Drew) Hazelton of Oak Park, CA, Elizabeth (Matthew) Ehrhard of Vero Beach, FL, and Damon (Kimberly) McLaughlin of Spring Lake, MI; treasured grandfather of Elle & Peri Hazelton, Malone Ehrhard, and William & George McLaughlin; brother of James O. McLaughlin of Harbor Springs, MI and brother-in-law Gordon Starr of Columbus, IN; uncle to several nephews and nieces.

David graduated from Chelsea High School in 1962 and was an outstanding athlete. He played on the varsity football team beginning as a freshman and set records in track and field as a hurdler. He went on to play football at University of Michigan and graduated in 1967. He received his law degree from Wayne State University in 1970. He opened his law practice in Chelsea, MI in 1972 and continued practicing law until his death.

David is recognized for his kindness, strength, and commitment to helping others, especially his law clients and the community of Chelsea. He was a founding member of Chelsea Education Foundation, past member and president of Chelsea United Way, past member and president of Faith in Action, former 30 year member of Kiwanis Club of Chelsea, founding member and first president of Zion Lutheran Old Church Board, and past member and president of Zion Lutheran Church at Roger’s Corners.

His childhood involved summers on Cavanaugh Lake where he and Jane also raised their three children. He traveled the Great Lakes fishing with his close friends. David later developed a passion for hiking and biking. He hiked the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. His biking adventures spread through Michigan, New York City and Europe. In recent years, he also enjoyed living with his wife in Spring Lake, Michigan and Melbourne Beach, Florida as well as their travels abroad. His most precious time involved holidays and summers together with family.

David will be immensely missed and his honorable virtues will remain in those he has touched, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Those preceded in his death are his mother Jean F. McLaughlin, father Russell A. McLaughlin, step-mother Elaine M. McLaughlin, sister Jane K. Starr, and sister-in-law Carol A. McLaughlin.

On July 14, 2022, at Robin Hills Farm 20390 M-52, Chelsea, MI 48118 there will be a 1:00pm visitation followed by a 2:00pm celebration of life. Donations in David's memory may be made to Faith in Action, 603 S. Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

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