Dennis James McLaughlin

Dennis J. McLaughlin, 74, of Clermont, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1952, in New York, New York. From an early age, Dennis carried a deep sense of duty and patriotism, and his earliest ambition was to become a soldier. After graduating from high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a Specialist (SPC) from August 1969 to February 1972. In true reflection of that pride, his favorite color was green.

On October 6, 1979, Dennis married the love of his life, Elizabeth Han Fong. Together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage built on devotion, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

Dennis enjoyed a long and successful career in general management with Pathmark. While he was dedicated to his work, one of his proudest accomplishments was reaching retirement and being able to enjoy life, his hobbies, and his family while still in good health.

He had a wide range of passions and interests that reflected both his curiosity and creativity. Dennis loved simulation games, particularly trains and airplanes, and had a deep appreciation for technology. He enjoyed the quiet challenge of crossword and word search puzzles, as well as expressing himself through art, including digital art, drawing and painting models. An avid sports fan, he followed the Jets, Raiders and especially loved the New York Mets. Music was another great joy in his life. Dennis collected and played guitars and admired artists such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath.

Above all else, Dennis loved his family. He devoted his life to caring for them and took great pride in the people they became. His love for them was quiet, generous, and unconditional.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Charles McLaughlin Jr. and Dorothy Reith; his grandparents, Thomas and Katherine McLaughlin and Charles and Loretta Reith; and his siblings, Tommy, Kathy, and Danny.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth; his four children, Elissa, Jon-Paul, Timothy, and Sara; and his four cherished grandchildren, Elliot, Dale, Nathaniel, and Gabriel.

Dennis will always be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. His greatest wish was that others learn to cherish and love their families as deeply as he loved his own.

Funeral arrangements will be private and limited to immediate family and close friends.

"I've lived my life to the best of my ability. I didn't over excel and I didn't underachieve."