David McLaughlin

It is with deep sadness and immense love that we announce the passing of David Allen McLaughlin, who left us on June 27, 2025 at the age of 42.

Dave was a larger-than-life presence. Fiercely loyal, endlessly entertaining, and always the first to show up when you needed him. If you knew him, you knew that bonfires weren’t just something he enjoyed—they were an art form. He was the spark at every gathering, often followed by laughter, wild stories, the occasional fireworks show and the kind of pranks that became family legend.

He was a storyteller through and through, with the rare gift of making you laugh until you cried. His tales—part truth, part exaggeration, all heart—were his way of bringing people together. His humor was sharp, his timing perfect, and his joy infectious.

Beyond the laughter and fun, Dave was a man of deep conviction. He stood up for what was right, fiercely protected those he loved, and remained unwaveringly dedicated to the people lucky enough to be in his circle. He was the person you could always count on—no questions asked, no conditions required.

He is survived by his mother and father Diane and Anthony, his siblings Kevin (Natalie), Steven (ThyDa) and Johanne (Luis), his nieces Torrance, Danica and Veronica, and nephew Darius, who will carry his stories and his spirit forward.

A celebration of life will be held on August 4, 2025, at Calvary United Pentecostal Church (1681 Cyrville Rd, Ottawa) from 1-4pm. Please RSVP to johannemclaughlin@gmail.com by July 28,2025. Bring your best memories, your loudest laugh, and if you can, your best prank story—we’ll be honoring him exactly how he would’ve wanted: with love and laughter.

Please note there is to be no alcohol at the event or on the premises at the family’s request. Light catering will be provided.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to The Ottawa Humane Society , in keeping with Dave’s love of all animals, but especially Fuzzball and Smokey.