Kenneth McLaughlin, 56, of Dedham, passed away far too soon on February 22, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply and friends who will miss him dearly.
Ken grew up in Quincy, a place that shaped him and remained close to his heart throughout his life. He attended St. Ann’s Elementary School and Xaverian Brothers High School, later graduating from Suffolk University. He built a long and respected career in financial services, spending more than twenty years at John Hancock. The work mattered to him, but the relationships mattered even more. He valued the friends he made there and the sense of purpose he found in his career.
Above all else, Ken was devoted to his family. He and his wife, Michelle, built a life grounded in love, laughter, and quiet traditions — from New Hampshire getaways to summers on the Cape. He was a proud and constant presence at his son Matty’s games, happiest when standing on the sidelines, watching, cheering, and simply being there. His love for Matty was steady and unmistakable.
Ken was also a thoughtful and attentive uncle to Tommy, Alison, Meghan, and Kaitlyn. He showed up, listened, and made each of them feel valued. He treasured time with his sister Shannon and remained close to his extended family throughout his life.
He loved Boston sports, summer evenings at Fenway Park or watching the Cape Cod Baseball League, afternoons on the golf course, and long conversations with good friends. He appreciated life’s everyday pleasures and the people who filled them.
Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle (McCarney) McLaughlin, and his son, Matthew Kenneth McLaughlin, both of Dedham; his sister, Shannon McLaughlin and her husband Ted Lipovan of Andover; his nieces and nephew, Tommy O’Neill and Alison O’Neill of Dedham, and Meghan McCarney and Kaitlyn McCarney of Norton; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will carry his memory forward. He was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth McLaughlin and Ann (Downs) McLaughlin.
Visiting hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home 456 High St. Dedham on Monday, March 2nd from 4-8pm. Funeral from the funeral home on Tuesday, March 3rd at 9am, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Mary's Church, Dedham at 10am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Care and Education of Matty McLaughlin Fund at https://everloved.com/life-of/kenneth-mclaughlin/donate/