Colonie-Linda A. McLaughlin passed away on February 18, 2019 at home.
She was born on September 22, 1939 daughter of the late Harry J. and Eleanor (Logan) Rickert.
Linda always had room in her heart for all, and touched many lives. She enjoyed being with family and using these moments to create loving memories without fear of embarrassment or making the family cringe. As long as she made everyone around her laugh at her antics, it was mission accomplished. And yes, the family does have the pictures to prove it. She enjoyed when we teased and kidded around with her, for she knew that it was done with love and affection. She also received great pleasure in giving it right back. It is in these memories that she will be remembered and so sorely missed.
Linda was independent, free spirited and uninhibited. Her life was an adventure. She loved traveling and doing things with her best friend Noreen. They were truly two peas in a pod and each other's better half.
To her inner circle of friends, Dave, Mary Estelle, Barbara, Carol, and anyone else we may have inadvertently failed to mention, we thank you for the love, support and friendship you shared with each other and bestowed upon our mother. You all held a very special place in her heart.
Linda was a Life Member of the Marine Corps Auxiliary League for over 40 years, a member of the Polish America Citizens Club, Town of Colonie Senior Citizens- Christ Our Light Seniors Club and a communicant of St. John's Lutheran Church of Colonie.
She is survived by her children, Michael McLaughlin (Tracy), Kathleen Slagen (Steve), Kristine Kanellis (Nicholas), Daniel McLaughlin (Claudia), and Michelle McLaughlin "and her gentleman friend" Garrett Pape; 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her sister Sandra McCullough.
The family would also like to express our deepest gratitude to the Colonie Police Department for their understanding, compassion, patience and professionalism throughout.
On a final note, we would like everyone to know that Linda's final wish was for her to be an anatomical gift to Albany Medical Center. However due to circumstance beyond her control this wish could not be fulfilled. It is the family's intention that by sharing this information it will add to the awareness of her desire to help others.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of choice honoring Linda's memory and wishes.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Linda's life will begin at 3pm on Sunday, February 24, 2019 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205. Calling hours will be held from 1-3pm prior to service.