Obituary of Gladys "Gladie" Estelle Laughlin

Laughlin, Gladys “Gladie” Estelle, 94, of Deephaven, passed peacefully in her sleep February 21st, 2022. Preceded in death by husband, Bill, and son, Jaime. Survived by sister, Lillian Artus; children, Craig (Barbie), Cheryl Cooper (Tom), Jody, and Kelly (Gina); grandchildren, Meghan (Ian), Christopher (Kim), Allison (Dee), Jeremy (Kristin), Katie (Tim), Dan, Ashley, Alexandra, Torrin, and Emma; great-grandchildren, Tommy, Billy, Keira, Kellen, Blake, Rosemary, Lola, Aubrey, Reggie, Samantha, Chester, Cameron, Grayson, and Roman.

Gladie was the consummate matriarch, blessed with skills she honed as big sister to Roger and Lillian. She was beloved by her siblings for nurturing and protecting them as only an eldest can. With dedication and humor she instilled in her children the ideal of familial love and affection, and was truly the heart of the family. There is no better example of this than the 55 consecutive Christmas gatherings she hosted for her children, grandchildren, brother & sister, nieces & nephews, and occasionally dear friends. Many remember her whistle, a call for gathering echoing through the generations. It was easily heard over any din, whether in the neighborhood, the house, or while traveling to locations new or familiar.

Gladie was a true adventurer (she and Bill traveled the world together). She also loved exploring new places with her children and grandchildren -- and while on a trip would often walk her companions, regardless of age, into the ground. She cherished cabin life, where she was a frequent card player (another love she passed on to the family). She loved to joke and was often consumed by knee slapping laughter. She was a generous donor and staunch supporter of the Twin Cities theater scene, and was committed to passing this love of theater on to the extended family. She adored all things Irish, especially her husband “Wild Bill” with whom she loved to dance.

Gladie was beloved by the staff of Summit Place Memory Care, who, like her family and friends, recognized her caring soul, feisty nature, zest for life, generosity, and eagerness to help others. She loved them back, and the family is so very grateful to them for their loving care. Gladie had an easy way that drew people to her, and her friendships tended to last a lifetime. With her piercing sky blue eyes, she will be missed by those who were blessed to know her.

A memorial gathering and celebration of Gladie’s life will be held on Saturday March 5th at 4:00 p.m. at The Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7110 France Ave. S., Edina, MN 55435. Memorials or sympathies may be sent to the Edina Cremation Society.

In remembrance of Gladie’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association