G ANSEVOORT --- William Sheedy McLaughlin Jr., age 73, of Selfridge Road, passed away Thursday, September 6, 2018, at Glens Falls Hospital with his wife by his side. He fought a brave battle against CLL, an incurable cancer.

Born December 4, 1944 in Pittsfield, MA, he was the oldest son of Lt. Colonel William S. McLaughlin Sr., USMC and Elizabeth G. (Hitchcock) McLaughlin, Esq.

He graduated from Greenwich High School in 1962; and attended Clarkson College, Class of 1966; Attended Hudson Valley Community College; graduated with honors from ACC in 1972.

Bill worked at many area firms including GE, Mallinckrodt, Skybell Tissue, Hollingsworth & Vose, twice, 40 years apart, Finch Pruyn for 25 ½ years, Espey Manufacturing and Lake George Steamboat Co. In the early 70's Bill owned his own construction company. He built over 60 houses plus electrical and plumbing work.

While at Finch Pruyn Bill held many union positions including Steward, Trustee, Safety Committee Chairmen, VP-President and President of UPIU Local 155. Bill was replaced after the bitter Finch Pruyn strike of 2001. At the time of this strike Bill was not an official of the local just a member. This was a blessing in disguise since it led to his working for the Lake George Steamboat Co. for 20 years as a Chief Engineer on the MV Mohican. Bill was proud to sail in Bill Dow's Navy.

He was a proud patriot, a member of the NRA and a Tea Party supporter. He loved to watch NASCAR as a member of the Junior Nation. He loved to read, play poker, travel across this great country, the Nubble Lighthouse in York, ME, watching his hummingbirds and love his family

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister; Polly Henke and her husband Chris; His brother-in-law George Miller of Glens Falls and his brother-in-law Sherrill Hunter; Numerous Aunts and Uncles.

Bill is survived by his wife of 39 years, Wanda McLaughlin; Son, Scott Miller of Gansevoort NY; son, William McLaughlin of So. Glens Falls NY; daughter, Cinnamon Giza (David) of Granville NY. He is also survived by grandchildren; Nick Miller of Plymouth Va.; Tyler McLaughlin, Hannah Stewart of Granville NY; Solimar and Grace Giza of Granville; Thomas and Jeorgia McLaughlin, Tristine St. John of So. Glens Falls NY; Great-grandchildren; Ann McLaughlin of Granville, NY.  Ave Mae and Riley Stewart of Granville; His sister; Meredith McKenzie-Lamb (Frank) and their daughters, Elizabeth and Cathy of Cherry Valley Mass; his Brother, J. Patrick McLaughlin (Jennifer) and their sons Adian, Brandon and Conner of Dallas Tx; His sister-in-law, Mary Hunter of Glens Falls NY her daughter, Tammy Hunter, Glenn Hunter and His wife Patty; surviving Aunt and Uncle Ann and John Hitchcock of Williamstown Mass. Bill was also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

As he wished there will be no calling hours.

Interment will be in Southside Cemetery in South Glens Falls, NY at the time picked by the family.

Bill asked that instead of flowers, take a ride on the Mohican and remember him as you knew him.

The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses in Tower two Oncology that took such wonderful care of him and the family. God Bless you all.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.