Eugene “Gene” McLaughlin

MILLINOCKET – Eugene "Gene" McLaughlin, 91, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning of February 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Gene was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Gertrude; his brothers Garold and Harry, Jr.; and sister Elaine.

Gene is survived by Mary, his devoted wife of 67 years; brother, Dean McLaughlin; his son Shawn and wife Mary of Minnesota; his daughters, Debbie Dumais and husband Real; Gina Beaulieu and husband Reggie of Millinocket; as well as his cherished grandchildren Alyssa Bouffard (Josh), Joshua Beaulieu (Adrienne), Jesse Dumais (Michelle), Diana Lakeman (Gary), and great grandchildren Lincoln and Beckett Bouffard, Maddie and Ellie Beaulieu, Luc Dumais, extended family, and many dear friends.

A message from Mary: Gene, my friend, my companion, I shall miss the warmth of your blue eyes and your beautiful smile. Our long talks throughout the years shared so much laughter as well as tears. The road we traveled together was wide and long…full of adventure and joy. Now that we have reached the end of our journey, I'm not sure how to be separated from you…I'm not sure how to let you go… I will not say goodbye…you are in my soul forever and one day we will begin our journey again.

Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army, spending time in Germany, a place he grew to love and remembered fondly throughout his life.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Gene developed an early passion for fishing and hunting that remained with him for decades. He embraced the changing seasons of Maine, enjoying winter pursuits such as ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, and spending warmer months on the golf course or sharing stories of the one that got away, and working in his garden. He was a longtime member of the Hillcrest Golf Club and participated actively in the Millinocket Bowling League, where he valued both the sport and friendships.

Gene dedicated 43 years of his life to his work at GNP East Millinocket Mill, taking pride in his job and the community it supported. Known for his work ethic and quiet strength, he was respected by colleagues and friends alike.

He also enjoyed traveling over the years, visiting places such as Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Mount Rushmore-a trip he spoke of often and especially treasured.

Gene will be remembered for his love of family, his enjoyment of the outdoors, and the simple pleasures of time spent with those he cared about most.

Gene's family wishes to extend special thanks to Jessica, Steve, and Beverly of Beacon Hospice.

Anyone wishing to make donations in Gene's memory may do so to the Katahdin Area Support Group, P.O. Box 374, Millinocket, ME 04462.

There will be a military graveside service in his honor on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 11:00 am in Millinocket. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.bowersfuneral.com.