Robert James Loughlin

Bob Loughlin of Mountain, surrounded by family and friends, passed away peacefully at Kemptville District Hospital on Feb. 27, 2006. He was 77.
He was the dear husband of Veronica (Naphan) and proud father of Gary, Linda (Kerry Carnegie), Gerald (Margaret Nelson), and Connie (Peter Brogan). He was best friend to his grandchildren Irena Morley, Shawn, Kyle, and Amber Carnegie, Stephanie (Casey Redmond) and Brett Loughlin, Lisa and Craig Brogan, and was great-grandfather to Dawson and Wylie. He is survived by sister Peggy Boucher, and many caring nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers John, Mike, Maurice, and sisters Theresa (Martin McGahey), Helen (Tony McGahey), Mary (Charles Cavell), and his twin sister Barbara (Elmer Naphan).
He spent his entire lifetime at their farm on Loughlin Ridge. Many will associate the Loughlin name with years of potato growing. In that era, many neighboring kids gathered at the farm to learn what a strong work ethic was all about. There isn't a single family gathering of the Loughlins that doesn't share a few thoughts on how hard everyone worked and how much fun it was.
For several years, Bob drove a New Life Mills feed truck covering many miles and meeting numerous farm families throughout Eastern Ontario. Most days there was a little helper riding along side with Bob. His grandchildren were so proud sitting in the "big truck" and "helping" Grandpa. The bag of candy sitting on the seat between them made up for all the bumpy roads and long days.
His dedication during the recent past was making sure that things were under control at Loughlin's Country Store in Hallville. One might consider Bob a silent partner because he said little yet did a great deal. The staff appreciate more than ever all the little tasks that were done without notice, but are greatly noticed when not done. Bob's quiet manner failed to display the multitude of "little things" that needed to be taken care of. Whether ensuring baking wasn't forgotten in the oven, an item wasn't missed on a food order, a piece of paper or cigarette butt wasn't left in the yard, shelves were always stocked and stock was properly rotated, or a customer wasn't kept waiting - all the little things that are important to good customer service.
Bob's greatest pleasure for the past thirty years has been the birth and life of his eight grandchildren. These grandchildren have looked to him for advice, encouragement, support, and compassion over the years. He welcomed Irena and enjoyed watching her boys grow. He was there when Shawn and Kyle were buying properties and when they lost Grandma C. He was genuinely interested in what Amber is studying in University. He was delighted to hear Steph and Casey were expecting, and since Brett was born, would always smile at his constant good-natured humor. He looked forward to school and sporting events that Lisa and Craig excelled in. These were eight shining stars in Bob's life that he nurtured and educated and left a lasting impression upon.
Bob leaves behind his lifelong partner, Veronica, after 56 years of marriage. Together they worked and travelled and struggled and endured. Together they farmed and raised a family, which included a few additional members at many times over the years. Together they gave their best to the community in which they lived.
Together, now only one to speak on their behalf, they want to thank each and every one of you who has shown so much support and compassion to their family over the past few weeks.
Together, with their children and grandchildren, they want to say thank you for the hugs and prayers, food and flowers, donations to worthy causes and for doing something kind, in Bob's name, for another in need.
Thank you to Grant Brown and staff for making this as gentle as possible for us. Thank you to Pat Maloney and Al MacEachern of the Celtic Knights for the delightful resounding music at the funeral service. Thank you isn't enough for the caring and compassionate staff at Kemptville District Hospital for all you did for not only Bob but all his supporters.
Thanks to the four grandsons, Shawn and Kyle Carnegie, Brett Loughlin and Craig Brogan, as well as nephews Leo Loughlin and Pat McGahey for acting as pallbearers.
An extra special "thank you," which just isn't powerful enough, to Pat McGahey for being the rock that kept us strong at a time when we needed it most. Your support can never be returned to the extent necessary to express how much this meant to each and every one of us. A deep and sincere thank you Pat!
It is difficult to say goodbye but say it we must. Thank you Bob (Dad, Grandpa) for accepting each of us unconditionally for who we have become. Thank you for being such a supportive husband, father, grandfather, and neighbor.
"We will not cry because it is over, we will smile because it happened."
God Bless!