William "Bill" M. Loughlin

William (Bill) Martin Loughlin passed away December 24th after a brief illness. Born in Gainesville, Florida he was a longtime resident of St. Lucie County. A true Florida native he wore shoes only when absolutely necessary and never met a body of water he didn't like.

He was devoted to his family and was a wonderful husband, father, Pepop, and brother. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was happiest when in the company of family and friends sharing good food, telling stories, and enjoying a good laugh.

He loved sailing and enjoyed building model ships. He did not limit this talent to models. He was especially proud of the Windmill sailboat “Serendipity” he rebuilt after rescuing it from a dumpster. He instilled his love of sailing to his children and was active with them in the local chapter of the Sea Scouts for several years.

He worked as a glazier and was well known as “The tall guy with the hat” to customers and contractors. He had recently started in business with his son Ian, opening Inlet Glass in Port St. Lucie. He was extremely proud of this accomplishment and had every confidence in its success. Sharing a business and seeing the great projects their talents produced pleased Bill to no end.

He took great joy in spending time with Ian and the grandchildren, even buying a boat so they could mess about on the water together at great leisure. Any excuse to indulge a grandchild would do. At home he enjoyed sharing crossword clues and answers with his daughter Megan. Along with a fondness for crossword puzzles they also took great pleasure in puns. The more groans the puns produced the better. He never turned down sharing a beer flight with Megan, a cold one with Ian, or a glass of champagne with Paula. He embraced life without apology and had no time for regrets.

He was Catholic and the family begs prayers on his behalf. We would also like to express our gratitude to the nurses and volunteers at Hospice House who cared so kindly for him in his last days.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Gehringer; daughter, Megan, son, Ian (Ashley); and three grandchildren, Connor, Havanna, and Marianna. He leaves behind a brother, Wayne (Cecilia); and two sisters, Lyn (Mike), and Mary Jo along with his loving nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents, Gig and Evalyn.

He will be sorely missed by all who loved him. Especially by Paula who loved him truly, madly, deeply.

No flowers. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to any of the following: Paws for Liberty, St. Jude Children's Hospital, Clean the World.

A Gathering will take place on Thursday, January 14, 2021 from 4PM to 6PM at the Haisley Tribute Center. The family will hold a private Memorial Mass at a later date.