Bill K. McLaughlin

Billy Kent McLaughlin the son of Paul and Helen M. Vap McLaughlin was born March 8, 1943 in Edgar, Nebraska.  He departed this life on Friday, July 26, 2019 at his home in Edgar, Nebraska at the age of 76 years.

Bill was a baptized member of the Methodist Church in Edgar.  He attended Edgar Schools in his youth.  He then found employment with Shuck Auto and later went to work for Darrell Johnson farming.  Bill served his country during the Vietnam War with the United States Army from 1964 to 1966 with the 25th Lighting Infantry Brigade.  Bill received the Purple Heart for being wounded in battle.  After being honorably discharged, Bill returned home and began a career with the Ong Coop which became the Aurora Coop and retired there.

Everyone that knew Bill, knew he loved to visit.  He always looked forward to shooting the breeze with the guys. He was along time member of the Edgar American Legion Post #248 of which he was a bartender for many years.  Bill was a classic car enthusiast; his pride and joy for years was a 1949 Plymouth that he had named Ethel.  Bill took many drives to Angus, where he would spend time in the shop there.  His dog Angus was a true friend to Bill and a constant source of joy to him.  Bill was very proud of his Ford Truck and was quick to tell everyone, “Nothing like a Ford”.

He is preceded in death by his parents, son Troy Alan McLaughlin, sister Sallie Scheve and husband Bill; brother Dean McLaughlin; sister Janis Buckles and husband Harold; brother Choc McLaughlin and wife Jean; sister Shirley Harms and husband Carl;  brother in law Bill Kenley; a niece Traci Kenley, nephew Billy Kenley and a great nephew David Bohling.

Survivors include his long time companion Ruth McLaughlin; daughter Deana Nacke and husband Paul; sisters Sharon Kenley and Linda Bruns and husband Donnie; sister Gayle Lamb and husband Leonard; brother Craig McLaughlin; sister in law Georgia Hillen and husband John and sister in law Barb Jensen; nieces, nephews other relatives and a host of friends.

An informal gathering will be held this Thursday 11:00 am, August 1, 2019 at the Edgar American Legion.  Pastor David King will share a few remarks and hopes there will be some stories to be told. Military honors will be presented at the Legion.  Private family burial will be held at the Edgar Cemetery at a later date.  In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to the Clay Center Critter Care for dog spay and neuter and/or the American Legion #248 and/or the Edgar EMT's.  The family requests that all that attend please dress casually, or as a joke for Bill to put on your best suit or dress and be uncomfortable!  Condolences may be sent to the family at wmsfh.com.  Williams Funeral Home of Edgar, NE is in charge of the arrangements.

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