Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Robert C. McLaughlin Jr.
Robert C. McLaughlin Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
Robert McLaughlin Obituary
Robert C. McLaughlin Jr. ran with the bulls in Pamplona, visited the killing fields in Cambodia and sailed the South China Sea. He played rugby and lacrosse in college, and later, as vice president for emerging markets at Cantor Fitzgerald, romped the playing fields of American capitalism. He was a man of adventure and action, a tough guy.
He also wrote poetry. This wasn't something he shared with many people, and he didn't do it often. But every now and then, when he felt particularly moved, he found his voice in verse. It happened two years ago, the night before his wedding, recalled his wife, Liz. And it happened again in April, when he began a new poem about their first child, Nicholas, now 10 months old. Like many new fathers, Mr. McLaughlin, 29, of Pelham, N.Y., was endlessly fascinated by the infinitesimal ways in which Nicholas was growing and becoming. He wrote:
Open your eyes young Nicholas
Open and see the colors
Of the world around you
Roll over young Nicholas
Roll over and see the light
Of day that awaits you
Crawl young Nicholas
Crawl and peer over the edge
Of experience that awaits you
Walk young Nicholas
Walk and find --
The last verse was a work in progress. "That's as far as he got," Mrs. McLaughlin said.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Chris Joosen
September 11, 2024
Hey Robbie! We’ve got a big camp reunion happening this month. I know you’ll be a part of thoughts and stories. As one thinks about all things that have happened in our lives since Camp and since 9/11 in detail, a lot of time has gone by. But when I think of our shared time in the fields and waterfront of the Iron Works in New Hampshire, it’s like yesterday. The moments are stamped within me forever. Your smile and laugh will never leave my mind. Thinking of you and all the friends and family who are doing the same. Juice
Brian Mannix
October 17, 2021
I loved Robbie since I met him at Sunday school at the Episcopalian Church in Garden City. He was a great man who has changed my life since his passing. I feel connected to him in some strange way. His was the first name I saw when I went to the 9/11 Memorial years later. It was unreal. Mrs. Mclaughlin, I barely remember you, but I know that your son still lives past his years of death. I'm nearly sure of it. I hope you and the family are well and have found comfort knowing that Robbie's death was not in vain. I'm planting 10 trees for Robbie in memory of him and in memory of all that I believe his death has changed in me. I've surrendered to God, finally and feel like I'm ready for an even longer journey. I guess we'll see , . . Love you so much and miss you.
Sincerely,
Brian Mannix.
September 12, 2021
Rob - Although we met in Hong Kong on the other side of the world, I think of you often as I live in Garden City, the town where you grew up. I remember our time in Asia, traveling around, your wedding in DC, and helping you demo your New Rochelle kitchen when you asked me if I wanted to come over and “break stuff”! You are missed every day!
Dan Carey
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Chris Joosen
September 11, 2021
Robbie, 20 years. Can’t believe how time stops for nothing. I try to slow the sand sometimes as it streams through the hour glass and put myself back in past memories. Youth becomes more and more distant, yet so much more a part of who we are and become. I’m so happy I got to share a little bit bit of mine with you. All of us who were able to be with you during those summers of innocence are better for it. We will never forget. Cabin 28 forever. Juice.
Take me back to the Lake...Miss you Robbie!
Nick Yardley
September 11, 2020
Found this classic Polaroid in a box of old stuff. Watch over us my friend.
Bonnie Conrad
September 12, 2019
I was thinking of you yesterday and wondering how your family is doing :)
Shabbab Khan
September 11, 2019
Another year... praying for you, and remembering the laughs...
Chris Joosen
September 10, 2019
Another year. Time goes on with you in our minds. Pat Morrison coming to visit next month and then Shadow in November. Well talk about you. Watch over us...ok? We need it more than ever. Juice.
Shabbab Khan
September 11, 2018
Another year. Miss you Rob.
Chris Joosen
February 13, 2018
Robbie, It's been more than 35 years since I met you. Endless Summer and the best of times. As Nick's pack grew into one of camp's greatest legacy. Tommy, Larry, Sully, Flats, Adam.....you. Your quality was undescribable. You had something different. You were young when I left camp in the summer of 88 but you are forever etched as a vibrant, loyal, and just good human. I don't remember what happened one day but while talking you through some tears I recall thinking that you where just an all around great American 13 yo. A kid everyone loved. I will always remember you as you were then. I never got to know you as an adult, but I am confident you became quite a man we would continue to love. As life goes on for for me I think of you, and your family I never knew. Cabin 28 forever. Juice
Brian West
September 12, 2016
Thinking of you today Rob. You are missed but never forgotten my brother
Stacey Lagala
September 11, 2016
I can't believe it's been 15 years. Sending warm thoughts and prayers to Liz, Nicholas and all your family.
Sudeep Singh
September 11, 2016
Thinking and Praying for you and your family on this 15th anniversary of 9/11.
Your client and friend,
Shabbab Khan
September 11, 2016
Peace be with you and your family, remembering the good times. Miss you my friend...
Leonie Bosher
September 10, 2016
Never forgotten, such a wonderful spirit xx
Shabbab Khan
September 11, 2015
Another year, miss you man...
Julie Smith
December 6, 2014
Hello to his wife Liz. I am visiting NYC today. I saw the white rose for your husband's birthday and took a picture of it with his name. I had to look up his information. I will keep you in my prayers. If you would like me to text you or email you the pictur, my email is [email protected].
Bonnie Conrad
December 6, 2014
I was at the freedom tower today and saw a rose that was left for him. I wanted to know more about this young man. I am so sorry for his families loss. P.s.we were at the st Regis yesterday for bloody Mary's!
September 12, 2014
Hi Liz
Another September 11th goes by and I always remember Rob and you from our good times in London. Peace be with you.
Shabbab
Nicole O'Shea
September 10, 2014
Hi Robbie,
The Bernie Girls still talk about you all the time, not just on Sept.11. Whenever we hear "Ripple," we close our eyes and think of you.
Wendy Goetz
September 11, 2013
Thinking of you today & every September 11th. God Bless your family & may you Rest in Peace!
Amy Jackson
September 11, 2013
12 years gone and you are sill loved and remembered. I hope you are resting peacefully in God's arms. <3 And, love and peace to all of your friends and family who miss you dearly.
Kim Piette
December 16, 2011
My 3rd and 4th grade classroom did a fundraiser and sent the money raised to the Twin Tower Orphan Fund. I received a bracelet today that says, Robert C. McLaughlin WTC.
Thinking of your family at this time of year. This bracelet will be a reminder for me to say a prayer for your family often. May you have peace this holiday season.
OFD 12
September 14, 2011
We received a flag with Robert's name at a 10 year anniversary memorial Fire Dept. service in Orlando, FL. May the memories of Robert remain close to your hearts. God Bless You all and God Bless America.
Thomas Thorp
September 12, 2011
To Roberts parents, wife, relatives:
I was given Robert's name to say out loud at church on Sept. 11, 2011 and to pray for.
wendy goetz
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today Rob. Praying for your family, hoping that their memories of you provide them with great comfort. You are truly missed.
Jain Brown
September 11, 2011
Liz,
We are thinking of you, Nicholas and Rob at this time.
Emmanuelle Rivera
September 11, 2011
Hello Robert,
I had only met you once Robert but you stroke me as a very nice, strong and happy person. You lived in Pelham with your wife Liz and your 9 month old son a couple houses away from mine in Pelham. Liz and I were becoming good friends when 9/11 happened. Since then, my thoughts often go to Nicholas (who used to look so much like you!), to Liz (who I have lost contact with since she does not live here anymore) and to your parents, to each one of them whose heart was so unbeleivably broken at the time. All my thoughts go to you Robert and to each one of you again today on this 10th anniversary...
Shabbab Khan
September 11, 2011
Hi Liz
My thoughts are with you and Nicolas after all these years, remembering the good times we had back when Rob spent time in London.
Doug Goldberg
September 11, 2011
Robby Mac, thinking of you 10 years later and the great times we had at Cantor. You are never forgotten.
Scott Moore
September 10, 2011
10 years on... We are still here, we have not forgotten. We hope one day Nicolas will find us, his fathers rugby mates, to ask what kind of man his father was.
Ken Cooksey
September 7, 2011
Elizabeth, thinking about Rob, you and family.
September 13, 2010
Robby, 9 years gone by and your absence is felt everyday still...our 20 yr HS reunion is this weekend; will be good to remember you back in those days...Jamey
wendy goetz
September 10, 2010
Hard to believe tomorrow is the 9th anniversary of losing you. Thinking of you and your family always.
Susie Raftery Riggio
September 11, 2008
Miss you Roberto.
Doug Abraham
December 6, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Jamey Cappello
September 11, 2007
Rob,
Six years gone and we all think about you all the time. Blessed to have been your friend.
Kim Dameron
September 11, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family today.
Your Brother
September 11, 2007
Rob,
You are missed every day
Andy Murray
September 11, 2007
Thinking of you and your entire family today. Rest in Peace.
God Bless,
Andy Muray
P Tabbernor
December 29, 2006
In memory....
Kristine
November 17, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Jamey Cappello
September 12, 2006
Rob,
Fives years gone. Time really does not take the pain away, maybe it dulls it at certain times. Our lives are less without you around. You're one of the great ones.
Your Friend,
Mary
August 30, 2006
Robert,
I wish you could have gone on being a poet. God bless you as September 11 gives us time to reflect.
adam orth
June 26, 2006
rob -
i wish i had the opportunity to know you as an adult...it sounds like you turned into all those things you wanted to be. you will truly be missed. thanks for all of the great summers down at the lake.
my prayers go out to you and your family.
Jamey
May 2, 2005
Rob,
Bec and I bought a house in Pelham recently. The town has a familiar feel to it. GC would have been too hard to go back to after the huge losses suffered. I miss you much, especially thinking about the great times that were ahead of us. You're a great friend and will never be forgotten.
Love,
Jamey
mrs. buchanan
February 4, 2005
walk and find.... LIFE!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
susie raftery riggio
September 11, 2004
My Dear Roberto,
When I first met you as a new college grad you were so full of energy, and confidence and promise and interest in everything you encountered. You drank it all in and made the very most of every day. Every morning at work when we rehashed the night before you had been to some funny part of the city, or a concert in the park, or tried some new cuisine or sport or bar. You really enjoyed yourself. I don't know how you fit it all in. You were hard working and sincere and ambitious. Such a quality person. I will never forget the fun times we had on the desk, and with Liz and your family. Your loss hits me particularly hard. Nicholas is so beautiful. When I experience milestones with Vincent, my heart breaks for your good life cut so very short, and for nicholas to have not had more time with you. You had a funny laugh that I can beckon in my mind, which I do, to think of you and smile. I can't believe you are up there, but I know you are, keeping an eye on everyone, and no doubt making the very best of the situation. Until we meet again my friend.
Nicholas Yardley
August 18, 2004
Peace be with all of you, especially Liz and young Nicholas.
Wendy Goetz
August 22, 2003
I think of you often. Especially on days when my own son reaches milestones - milestones that you will never get the chance to see. Nicholas should be nearly 3 now. You've missed first steps, you'll never see that first tooth come out and have the pleasure of sneaking money under the pillow. My son approaches kindergarten this September- a September that we all wish would never come. Sometimes I wish the calendar didn't have September but then again without it we wouldn't have the chance to celebrate your life and the countless others who lost all that day. I realize how very lucky I am, how lucky we all are to have known you. You are truly missed.
Anita & John Trainor
September 19, 2002
As fellow Pelhamites, on this first anniversary of the tragic and senseless loss of Rob, we want to express our deepest sorrow and extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Liz, son Nicholas, and to all of the McLaughlin and related family members. We pray for Robert and for all of you and ask God to give you the continued strength to endure your terrible loss. May God Bless Rob and all of you.
Jenny McLaughlin
September 12, 2002
Liz, Nicholas, and the rest of the McLaughlin Family,
I am always thinking of you guys and wish you all the best! Rob is greatly missed and our hearts are always with you! Take care! Lots of Love...Jenny
Jennifer Vinson
September 12, 2002
“ A butterfly flies beside us like a sunbeam, and for a brief moment its glory and beauty belongs to our world. But then it flies on again, and though we wish it could have stayed, we feel lucky to have seen it.”
I have very fond memories with Liz & Rob in DC, NYC, Lisbon & London. Rob was truly one of the best. My condolences to the entire McLaughlin family.
Emmanuelle Rivera
September 11, 2002
Liz,
we have thought about you every day this past year and you will continue to be in our thoughts regardless of where your life is.
We wish you all the best and more.
victor and emmanuelle
Cathleen Quinn Montrose
September 11, 2002
To the McLaughlin families,
On this one year anniversary, my deepest, deepest condolences...
Cathy Montrose
Sudeep Singh
September 1, 2002
Dear Liz and Nicholas -
I was a client of Rob's when he was here in London.
He and I travelled to Paris together one weekend and had great time watching the Chicago Bulls.
I can honestly say that in an often cold and tough business, he was one of the truly good guys.
God bless you all,
Sudeep Singh
Robert McLaughlin
July 11, 2002
I knew no one personally who perished on 9/11. I read all the names looking for anyone I may know. Obviously I felt a conection with Robert, even if it was in name alone. I read all I could on his work and his family. God bless you all, may we prevent this from ever happening again.
Robert C. McLaughlin
Master Sergeant, US Army
Yolanda, Michael, Timothy, Nicholas and Elaina Faerber
June 6, 2002
Dear Liz and Nicholas,
We think about you every day, and love you both very much. Rob was so very special to so many people. On your wedding anniversary, we will be thinking of you dancing at your wedding, and breaking plates as we greek danced our way across the hall (I wonder if the people at the St. Regis had ever seen anything like that before?)
God bless you both, and may his memory eternal. Love always,
Yolanda and Michael
Candu Hannan
June 5, 2002
I just want the family of Bob to know that I have the MercyBand with Robert C. McLaughlin on it. I wanted to let you know that I pray for him everyday. My heart goes ou to his family. Candi
Gary Druckenmiller, Jr.
April 30, 2002
I have summer memories of Rob and I fishing on Peconic Bay. Playing tennis at the Mattituck High courts. And of course, knowing Rob from Grade 1 at St. Joe's where our friendship would last for the next 10 years. We hadn't spoke in a while, letting time and distance become our enemy, but I will always remember Rob. And I will always have those wonderful memories. Thank you Rob.
My thoughts and prayers are with the McLaughin family.
wendy goetz
April 11, 2002
my heart pours out to rob's family and friends. i knew rob back in his high school days @ chaminade. he was always a great guy and would do anything for you if he could. god bless sweet nicholas, i hope one day he will truly understand what a great man his father had become.
March 29, 2002
To the family of Rob,
I was a high school teammate of Rob's. I was truly fond of him - he had such a positive presence - he was ALWAYS smiling and laughing. My thoughts and Prayers are with you. God Bless Rob.
Maureen Hopkins
March 20, 2002
Dear Julie,My heart and prayers go out to you and your family in the loss of your brother.I can not imagine the pain you must feel,I cry when I think about it.I hope your new baby will help to bring joy back into the lives of you and your family.My prayers are with you always!Love,Maureen
Tony Ng
March 11, 2002
Liz,
I will never forget all the good times in HK. All the food, the bars, and all that beer! I definitely will not forget how Rob lent out his hand to try to help me when I was down and had no directions in my career. His drive and ambition to succeed inspired me to do the same. I wish you and Nicholas the best. If there's anything I can do for you & your family, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Your friend,
Tony Ng & Cheri Peck
March 6, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL YOUNG MAN...ROBERT C. MCLAUGHLIN JR. AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE...SON...FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS AND ST.PATRICK GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Susan Gruskin
February 13, 2002
Dear Elizabeth:
I think a lot about you and Rob and that magical night that you were married at the St. Regis Hotel. It was wonderful to see such a happy, "in-love" couple. I hope that you are finding comfort in your wonderful family and baby Nicholas.
All the best,
Susan Gruskin
Al Faretra
January 15, 2002
Dear Liz and Nicholas,
I found this website thanks to Mr. Paul Dupont, formerly the director of Camp Fatima in NH. I worked at Camp as Counselor, CIT Director and Program Director during the years Robbie was a camper and worked on staff. When a member of the Camp Family dies, we all feel the hurt but in this moment it's far worse because it wasn't supposed to be. I promise you both a continuing remembrance in my prayers and hold Robbie in a special place in my memories. May the Good God fill your hearts with peace and give you the gift of knowing that you have a special "guardian angel" to watch you all your days. Father Al Faretra.
Carolyn & Peter Oppenheim
January 3, 2002
Dear Elizabeth-
Our thoughts are with you all the time. We only hope that you can find comfort in the arms of your beautiful son.
God bless you.
Teresa Jahn
December 21, 2001
What beautiful words Robert left for Nicholas. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Robert. May his life and love live on in Nicholas and all who love him. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Sarah Downes
November 2, 2001
It is with the greatest sympathy I write to Rob's family. Recently read in the Sydney Morning Herald of his enjoyment playing touch rugby with Aussie friends in New York City. Very special times indeed. Wishing you all the best of luck with your future and sending you strength and prayers to deal with everything ahead. God bless you all and Rob especially.
Liza Pedicini
October 24, 2001
My heart and prayers go out to the McLaughlin family. I knew Robby in my teen years from GC.
Ed Martyn
October 18, 2001
Thanks Rob. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dan Purcell
October 18, 2001
All my thoughts & Prayers are with you. Rob was a great friend. I was fortunate enough to grow up a block away from him and spend my first year of college at Lehigh with him. He led a life that I will always admire.
BARBARA BOLIN
October 7, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
ROBERT MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Make a Donation
in Robert McLaughlin's name
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert McLaughlin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored