Desmond Francis McLaughlin

Desmond F. McLaughlin, 93, of Barrington, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, September 19, 2024. He was born on February 17, 1931 in Northern Ireland to Gerald Francis and Margaret (nee Atchinson) McLaughlin.

He obtained his medical degree from Queen’s University in Belfast where he was co-captain of the crew team. After immigrating to Canada and the United States, Des obtained his American citizenship through his service to the U.S. army. He proudly served in Texas, New York, and Alaska. His experiences in Alaska were the foundation for many of his best stories.

During his service, he married Gloria Pesavento, with whom he had three daughters. He enjoyed studying and practicing medicine, and he specialized in anesthesia. He went on to become Chief of Anesthesia at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital in Syracuse, NY as well as Chief of Anesthesia for Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL.

A lifelong learner, he read continuously and also pursued coursework at the University of Chicago. He was a brilliant man who could recite historical facts, lessons, poems and songs with ease. With his encyclopedic memory and vocabulary, Des would weave stories to entertain his friends and family. A kind and joyful person, he was deeply loved by all who knew him.

Des is preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Margaret; sister, Sheila; grandson, Jack Derick; and stepson, Steve Warner.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 40 years, Nadine Warner; daughters, Sherry Derick, Linda (Chris) Defonce, Sandra (Dave) Rabe, stepdaughter, Natacha (Tommy) Kiler (nee Warner); grandchildren, Michael Derick, Julia Defonce, Sophia Defonce, Annie Rabe, Teddy Rabe, Caroline Rabe, Juliette Kiler and Sonya Kiler, and great-granddaughter, Alessia Derick.

A celebration of life will be held for family in October 2024.