Daniel James McLaughlin

1943 - 2010

Daniel James McLaughlin, age 67, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010, under the exceptional care of Renown Regional Hospital in Reno, Nev.

Daniel was born in Los Angeles Jan. 5, 1943. He spent his childhood years in Lake Elsinor. His family moved to the Conejo Valley after high school. He proudly served as a U.S. Marine. He then spent a brief time as a firefighter with the Ventura County Fire Dept. from 1969-1971. He then pursued a career as a union plumber/pipe fitter in Local 484. He was also a well known designer of custom homes throughout California with his business of Original Designs. His passion for construction led him to obtain numerous I.C.B.O. and IAPMO certifications and a general contractors license. His years of knowledge and expertise in architectural design directed him to work as a home inspector throughout his retirement.

Daniel spent the last 11 years residing in the Eastern Sierras between McGee Creek and Bishop. The activities he enjoyed were hunting, fishing, skiing, and camping. He loved spending time with friends and family, and teaching his grandchildren how to fish. He was an active member in the NRA and supported the Veterans Affairs. His passion for duck hunting led him to donate his time teaching underprivileged youth the sport of duck hunting in the mountains near San Diego.

Daniel is survived by his daughter, Julie D. McCampbell, of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard; stepson, Richard Ellison, daughter-in-law, Tomi Ellison, and grandchildren, Cole and Kaiya Ellison of Moorpark; and stepdaughter, Tracy Ellison of Simi Valley. His surviving siblings include Patti Kurtze of Grants Pass, Ore., and Richard McLaughlin of Oxnard.

A celebration of his life will commence on Thursday, Nov. 18, from 10-11a.m. at Griffin Family Funeral Chapel, 101 E. Wilbur Rd., Thousand Oaks. A private burial is scheduled for the following day at the Riverside National Cemetary in Riverside.