Stuart McLaughlin

It is with profound sadness that we share the sudden and devastating loss of our beloved Stuart Edward McLaughlin, who died in a skiing accident on February 15, 2026, at the age of 53. A devoted son, husband, and father, and a cherished friend, Stu lived a life of deep friendships, professional accomplishments, and profound love for his family. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched everyone who knew him.

Born in San Francisco on October 4, 1972, to Carrick and Andy McLaughlin, Stu was an only child with a quick and curious mind, an outgoing personality, and striking red hair. After attending Town School for Boys and San Francisco University High School, he graduated from Williams College, where he studied history, a passion he inherited from his father. He received his MBA from Stanford University.

Charming and smart, yet modest and quick to laugh at himself, Stu built many enduring friendships over the years. He had a gift for listening, asking insightful questions, and making everyone he talked to feel valued. Even amid the demands of family and work, he always made time to maintain old friendships and foster new ones.

For over 25 years, Stu built a distinguished career as partner at Sansome Partners. He was a talented investor with sharp instincts and a unique ability to move through tense negotiations with ease. The qualities that defined Stu's friendships also shaped the culture at Sansome. He brought patience and perspective to every discussion, often strengthening relationships in the process. Throughout his many accomplishments, he was a champion and advocate for his colleagues, sharing every win and elevating those around him. He was a founder of one of Sansome's most successful endeavors, Hawk Hill Capital Partners, and was a driving force behind the firm's growth and success.

Stu also shared his success through his commitment to his community. He gave his time and expertise to multiple education nonprofits, serving on the boards of Alder Graduate School of Education, Breakthrough Collaborative, Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, Leadership Public Schools, and The Nueva School.

This generosity defined Stu's personal life as well. In times of crisis, he showed up for friends, neighbors, and colleagues with empathy and action. He was quick to respond with support and humor, making people feel cared for in their hardest moments. Many considered him their closest friend, the person they would turn to first for advice and comfort.

Above all else, Stu was a devoted husband to Meg, the love of his life and his wife of almost 20 years, and a dedicated father to their sons Andy, Harry, and Peter. He adored them beyond measure. He loved sharing stories about their adventures and small moments, always quick to joke about his foibles as a father and husband. To know him was to know the joy he took in his family.

Stu leaves behind many who feel devastated by his absence. He was a beloved father, husband, son, son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle. He was a mentor, a confidant, and a true friend. He is survived by his parents, Carrick and Andy; his wife Meg; their sons, Andy, Harry, and Peter; and his in-laws, the Masuno family.

In lieu of flowers, his family suggests donations to Alder Graduate School of Education or Peninsula Bridge. Memorial service details will be announced in the coming days.

With love,

The McLaughlin family