Thomas McLaughlin

Thomas McLaughlin, of Pinedale, Navajo County, Arizona went home to be with the Lord on March 1, 2014 at his home in Pinedale. He was 65. Tom was born to his parents, Thomas F. and Violet (Moller) McLaughlin on January 29, 1949 in New York, Queens, New York. He grew up and went to school in Bellport, Long Island where he was most passionate and excelled at baseball. He was a wonderful son and brother. Although he dreamed of playing baseball, Tom decided to become a "Kiddy Cruiser" and joined the United States Navy at 17. Because of his intelligence he was highly trained to be a specialty officer in communications. He served 2 tours for his country in the Vietnam War. During his travels with the Navy he fell in love with San Diego, Ca. and when his tour ended in 1970 he moved there, and met his beloved Jayne. At the young age of 21, Tom educated himself into becoming a master builder, mechanic, painter and chef. While in San Diego, Tom and Jayne built and restored many homes until they moved to Pinedale in 1983. Knowing Pinedale would be his lifelong home, he finally realized his dream of becoming a business owner. Tom successfully owned and operated Canyon State Builders, serving the entire White Mountains for over 20 years. During this time, he taught many people various trades; some of whom went on to start their own businesses. Tom was a strong foundation and pillar for his family. He was a faithful friend and father to all his children. He loved having an enjoyable conversation with friends, especially his friend Robert Grey. Tom never met a person he didn't care about or wouldn't help. Before his back trouble he loved to camp and fish. He was the first one there and the last to leave when it came to helping others or get-to-gathers. His all time favorite thing was to travel to see family. He was a member of the Church of Nazarene of Show Low and had an immense love for the Lord. We already miss him; our beloved Tom. Philippians 2:1-12 KJV. He is survived by his wife, Jayne McLaughlin of Pinedale, Arizona; children, Mike (Peggy) Robinette of West Cliffe, Colorado, Mark (Debbie) Robinette of Show Low, Arizona, George (Traci) Robinette of Aurora, Colorado, Marne (Michael) Mariscal of Show Low, Arizona, Greg Robinette of Pinedale, Arizona; grandchildren, Paul (Becki) and Melissa Robinette of Centennial, Colorado, Sunshine "Sugie" Brewer and Chance Mariscal of Show Low, Arizona, Kristie (Scott) Loewe of Tyler, Texas, Nicolette and Savannah Thompson, Joshua and Samantha Robinette of Aurora, Colorado; several great-grandchildren; mother, Violet (Paul) Reich of Peconic, Long Island; siblings, Randi, Sharon, Scott and Stacy McLaughlin all of Peconic, Long Island; several nieces and nephews as well as 1 great-niece and 2 great-nephews He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas F. McLaughlin. A visitation will held from 4:00-6:00PM Friday, March 7, 2014 at the Owens Livingston Mortuary~White Mountain Chapel, 320 N. 9th St., Show Low, Arizona and one hour prior to the services. Funeral services will be held 1:00PM Saturday, March 8, 2014 at the Owens Livingston Mortuary~White Mountain Chapel with the interment to follow in the Pinedale Cemetery in Pinedale, Arizona.