Laughlin, William age 78, of Deephaven. Beloved husband of Gladys for 56 years. Devoted father of Craig, Cheryl (Tom) Cooper, Jody, Jamie (Lisa) and Kelly (Gina). Dear grandfather of Meghan Cooper, Chris Cooper, Allison Durig, Jeremy Laughlin, Katie Cooper, Dan Weinkauf, Ashley Cooper, Alexandra Laughlin, Torrin Laughlin and Emma Laughlin. Bill was a second generation Irish-American. He served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper and drill instructor. He was a member of the American Legion. Mr. Laughlin was a successful businessman who grew a small business into one of the largest paper merchants in the country. Bill was a philanthropist, a mentor, and an inspiration to many. He was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from H.E.A.R.T. Bill was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons. He also loved gardening. He will be remembered by his family and many friends for his boundless generosity and determination as demonstrated by his courageous 2 1/2 year battle with lung cancer. He was a brilliant man who lived his life with integrity, dignity, loyalty and honesty. He will be greatly missed. A service to remember his life will be held at 10 AM Saturday, Jan. 28, 2006 at Grace Church, 9301 Eden Prairie Rd., Eden Prairie. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to H.E.A.R.T., 2314 University Ave W., Suite 10, St. Paul, MN 55114. Cremation Society of MN Edina 952-924-4100
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
We sadly learned today of Bill's passing last Janurary during our annual Texas vacation. Gladys kindly noted it on her 2006 Christmas card. Bill was a dear friend, but also a life-saving mentor to me and many. We will treasure his memory.
Kenneth C. Strandberg
December 29, 2006 | Plymouth, MN
I wish peace and comfort to Bill's family. Slainté, Bill.
Thea McCarthy
February 07, 2006 | Maple Grove, MN
My love and gratitude for the many times I would just look at Bill and know things will be alright. He was indeed an inspiration to me, I felt save in the arms of AA. Thank God for Bills time on earth, and I believe that Bill, Jim Mader and Dobbie are all having a meeting in the Heavens. We loved you so very dearly. Denise
Denise Lego
February 05, 2006 | Fremont, NE
I was saddened when I received this news. May the love of family and friends bring you peace and comfort.
William (Bill) Spreeman
February 04, 2006 | White Bear Lake, MN
We were sorry to hear of your sorrow. We send our thoughts and prayers for the family.
Bob and Rita Schueler
ROBERT SCHUELER
January 31, 2006 | SUNTREE, FL
To the Family of Uncle Bill. I only knew Him for a short 27 years. But in that time he touched my life very deep. He saved my life with his gentleness, wisdom and laughter. He coached me on in life ever reminding me to live one day at a time. He gave me the courage to sing, to read, and to love, most of all to forgive. Thank you from deep in my heart for sharing Bill. Bill every time I sing "one day at a time" I will be singing it to you as well.
God Bless you uncle Bill
Susan Kay - Traynor (Stenehjem)
January 28, 2006 | Minneapolis, MN
My sincere condolences to the Laughlin Family.
Those of us who worked with Bill were blessed. Bill was a mentor to many,a friend to all, and willingly shared his wisdom and sense of humor to those of us fortunate enough to know him.
We will all miss him.
Tod Short
January 27, 2006 | Minneapolis, MN
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Laughlin family. So sorry to hear about Bill. I just heard of this last night-- Sorry we can not be there for your service tommorrow. We will be thinking of you. We will never forget you Bill--how could we?? My hand still stings from your handshake--
Bob Rathkamp
January 27, 2006 | Valencia, CA
To our good and inspirational friend
Bill, for over 28 years I have enjoyed your friendship and our
memories. You will forever be remembered in our hearts.
Gordy & Marge Brown
Gordy Brown
January 27, 2006 | MN
