Donald E. "Donnie" McLaughlin

1935 - 2025

Donald E. "Donnie" McLaughlin
Born: December 31, 1935 in New Lenox, IL
Died: October 4, 2025 in Manhattan, IL
Donald E. McLaughlin "Donnie", 89, of Manhattan, IL, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family, on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Donnie is survived by his loving wife, Mary Agnes; three children, Pat (Linda) McLaughlin, Kathleen (Rich) Reichenberger, and Dennis (Alicia) McLaughlin; and his cherished grandchildren, Lindsay (Brian Stone) McLaughlin, Kelsey (Scott) Dearing, Daniel (Mykaila Hayes) Reichenberger, Katie and Krista Reichenberger, Chase (Eileen) Johnson, and Ashtyn McLaughlin. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Jaxon, Jayce, Delanie, Deklen, Lars, and Vonn, with two new great-grandchildren arriving next spring.
He is also survived by his sister Mary (late Paul) Diehl and sister-in-law Lois (late Leo) Bernhard, along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Florence (nee Dunn) McLaughlin, his beloved son Daniel, and his grandson Patrick. Also, brother and sister-in-law, Don and Phyllis Bernhard.
Donnie was born in New Lenox on December 31st, 1935, and attended Reiter School, a one-room country grade school, and later Joliet Catholic High School, graduating with the Class of 1953.
On September 14, 1957, Donnie married the love of his life, Mary Agnes Bernhard, at St. Joseph's Church in Manhattan. Together they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and family. In 1965, they moved to the farm where his grandmother was raised, where they built a beautiful life raising livestock and grain. He continued the family heritage, working the land his father, grandfather, and great grandfather farmed and later with his sons. He could still be found in the cab of a tractor up until just a couple years ago. During the winters, Donnie worked at K&K Concrete in Frankfort to provide for their growing family. His strong work ethic and devotion to his family made it possible for them to take many cherished trips together while their children were young - memories that remain treasured to this day.
Donnie took great pride and enjoyment in entertaining family and friends at his poolside paradise. When not enjoying his at-home haven, he and Mary Agnes spent their winters as snowbirds in the Sunshine State, cherishing time with beloved friends and soaking up the warmth, laughter, and memories that Florida brought each year. He also had a lifelong love for NASCAR and Indy car racing and never missed a chance to cheer on his favorite drivers. He attended many races with his family.
Donnie will be remembered for his witty personality, endless stories, and the way he could make anyone laugh. His deep love for history, his life lessons, and his genuine heart will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him. He created a legacy of love, family, and hard work that will forever be carried on by those who knew and loved him. His smile, laughter, and wisdom will echo through generations.
Visitation for Donnie will be held at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home on Friday, October 10th, 2025 from 9:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Manhattan, IL, will immediately follow for Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 P.M. Interment St. Joseph Cemetery, Manhattan, IL 60442. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.