(January 27, 2005) -- Community activist and retired CSULB Prof. Richard McLaughlin, husband of former LB activist Colette Marie McLaughlin, Ph.D., has passed away following an extended illness.

Word of his passing was emailed to friends by Mrs. McLaughlin, who said his "soul peacefully left this earth...in the presence of members of his family." His health had deteriorated due to non-alcohol-related cirrhosis of the liver coupled with multiple organ failure.

In a touching obituary, Mrs. McLaughlin wrote:

"His seven decades of life were spent serving those who were blessed to know him including his service as student and White Plains High School Reunion committee member [in New York State where he was born], soldier in the US Army as a Russian language interpreter (and graduate of the Defense Language School in Monterey formerly known as Army Language School) during the Korean Conflict, 27 years of service as a professor of educational technology at CSULB, choir member and service club president for the Russian Orthodox (Christian) Church, PTA president at Millikan HS [Long Beach] and a loving and supportive husband." He leaves wife Colette, daughters Corinne & Katherine, stepdaughter Michelle and grandsons Dylan and Cody.

"He loved me with every bone in his body...We did drive each other bonkers but there was always love in our house," wife Colette told LBReport.com. (File photo, left)

Services will be in the Monterey Bay area to which the McLaughlins relocated in 2003. The funeral will be held on Jan. 29 at 10:00 a.m. at Peter and Paul Orthodox Church (near Santa Cruz) at 9980 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond. Arrangements are being conducted by Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, (831) 423-5721.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be sent to the Orthodox Service Club ("O" Club) of Holy Mary Virgin Cathedral, 650 Micheltorena St., Los Angeles, CA 90026-3612 or other service organization.