BRISTOL Dennis E. "Denny" McLaughlin, 70, went home to be with his heavenly father Monday, June 26, at Elkhart General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Dennis was the most wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and friend anyone could ever have. He was a very simple man, always putting God first in his life, followed by his family.

Denny was an avid fisherman and was a member and past president of the Elkhart County Bass Masters. He also enjoyed hunting, was a knife maker and a member of New Paris Missionary Church. He loved spending time on the lake and the time he spent with his family, including his wife of 50 years, Gloria.

He blessed everyone who knew him and will be terribly missed. He put up a very hard fight against cancer for the past two-and-a-half years. All of his family and friends feel blessed that God finally gave him complete healing.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria; his two daughters, Tracy Axsom (David) and Julie Mora (Ed); as well as his four loving grandchildren, Shelbee and Mackenzee Axsom, Lily and Nathan Mora. Also surviving is his brother, Wayne McLaughlin.

Funeral services for Denny will take place Monday July 3, at 1 p.m. at Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home, Elkhart. Pastor David Hackney of New Paris Missionary Church will preside. Friends may visit with the family two hours prior to the service.

Burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart.

To send an online condolence, visit www.wmzfh.com