Thomas Edward Loughlin, Sr.

Mr. Thomas Edward Loughlin, Sr., age 91, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his family by his side. The family finds comfort in knowing that Tom has joined his wife in heaven, Harriet C. (Cheek) Loughlin, who passed away on March 11, 2006. Born in Philadelphia, PA on May 28, 1915, Tom was the son of the late John and Amelia (Gale) Loughlin. At the age of 3, his father passed away. The family remained in Pennsylvania, where he was raised with his brother, sister, and half-sisters. As a teenager, Tom set out for new experiences. It was then that he met his mentor, Alfred Moon, who was looked upon as a father figure. Alfred taught Tom great values and lessons, upholding his Quaker background. As a young man, Tom was a natural athlete, and showed talent in football and track during high school, earning 4 letters. During his collegiate years he also excelled in sports, competing with Jesse Owens at Penn State track relays. While competing in football, an injury halted his sports career. The injury led him to meet Harriet at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, where he graduated. It was on September 19, 1937 that he married the former Harriet E. Cheek, with whom he shared 68 years until her passing. A truly devoted couple, their union was strengthened by mutual sacrifice and support. During WW II he worked for American Airlines as a navigator, transporting soldiers and goods world wide. Also, during the Korean Conflict he navigated for Northwest Airlines. During his tenure in aviation, he participated in numerous flights and fishing trips to Newfoundland with Charles Lindbergh. In 1948 he lived in New York City, and around 1955 Tom and his family resettled in the Utica area, where he began his lifelong career in the insurance industry. In 1957 he established and operated the Loughlin Insurance Agency. Tom was a member of the American Legion Post 229 in Utica. Always non-judgmental, Tom instilled optimism in his daily and family life. He found the beauty and the good in every situation, and truly lived as a gentleman. He carried the presence and values of generosity, kindness, and honesty. He maintained a life-long commitment to sports and athletics, and felt great fulfillment in supporting baseball and youth sports in the Utica area. He had a special fondness for football. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family. In his more recent pastimes, he took pleasure in spending time with his grandson, Benjamin, and his canine companion, Moose. Mr. Loughlin is survived by his sons, Thomas E. Loughlin, Jr. of Utica, and Robert C. Loughlin of Utica, who continues to manage the family business. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Betsy L. Loughlin, and Georgia C. Loughling of Utica, and their mother, Karen Robbins of Whitesboro, and Benjamin S. Loughlin of Utica; his half-sisters and their families, Winnie Tettemer of NJ, Jean Sincage of PA, Gertrude Cooper of FL, and Isabelle Feindel of FL; and his in-law, “Betsy” Camper of Heber Springs, AK. He was predeceased by a brother, David Loughlin of Bucks County, PA; and a sister, Margaret Vaccaro of NJ. The family offers a special thank you to the doctors and staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s C.C.U. and ER for their professional care and compassion. Gratitude is also extended to the Masonic Care Community of New York, especially to Thomas Moore, for his beloved friendship. In keeping with Tom’s wishes, there will be no public services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. “I give my heartfelt thanks to all my family, friends, clients, and associates, who are considered extended family in sharing this wonderful life”… Tom, Sr.

Thomas Edward Loughlin, Sr.

May 28, 1915 - December 7, 2006