His story

John Peter McLaughlin, born on September 23, 1951, in Jersey City, New Jersey, passed away on July 16, 2024, in Delray Beach, Florida, surrounded by loved ones. John was the son of John and Rita McLaughlin and older brother to Mark (Carol Ann) and David (Mary) McLaughlin.

As a young man, John's heart was always home at Allenhurst Beach Club on the Jersey shore, where he made cherished memories, worked with passion, and developed friendships that left an indelible mark on his life. John's life changed forever during his freshman year at the University of Notre Dame when he accidentally boarded the wrong bus to a dance at St. Mary’s, where he met the love of his life, Susann McLaughlin. They were married in 1973 and embarked on a remarkable journey together. Theirs was a love that stood the test of time, and they were a true example of unwavering commitment and partnership. Together, they created a home filled with love.

Family was everything to John. He was a devoted husband to Susann and a loving father to their two sons, JP (Emily) and Chris (Tara). He was his children's biggest supporter, always there with a listening ear and a word of wisdom. John's love and devotion extended to his five grandchildren, Henry, Oliver, Sienna, Eloise, and Nora, who brought him immeasurable joy. He cherished every moment spent with them, whether reading books, playing games, or simply being there to listen to their stories and dreams. John was selfless, caring, and always put his family first.

John's professional career was exceptional. After earning his J.D. from the Catholic University of America, he served as counsel to various subcommittees in the United States House of Representatives, where he drafted numerous measures that became FDA laws. From January 1985 to September 1987, John was a partner at the Washington, D.C. law firm Royer, Shacknal, & Mehle, specializing in food and drug law. He later joined Genentech, a biopharmaceutical company, which brought his family from Maryland to San Mateo, California. John held several senior management positions at Genentech, including Executive Vice President and General Counsel. John was known for his brilliant mind and dedication to his employees and colleagues. John's legal and business acumen led him to become the President of Tularik Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Anesiva, Inc. He also served as the President & CEO of PDL BioPharma from 2008 to 2018, co-founded and served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Eyetech Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and co-founded and served as Director of Peak Surgical, Inc. John also served on the Boards of Directors of Seattle Genetics, Inc., Axogen Inc., LENSAR, Inc., and numerous other biopharmaceutical companies. He continued to do so until shortly before his passing.

Aside from his work and family, John had many hobbies and passions. He loved cycling, reading books, and was an avid fan of Notre Dame football. He enjoyed sharing his interests with others and was known to light up a room with laughter when exchanging jokes with his brothers.

John Peter McLaughlin will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His legacy as a leader in the biopharmaceutical industry and as a loving husband, father, and grandfather will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. John's unwavering love and care for his family, sharp intellect, and warm personality will be remembered forever, and his impact on the lives he touched will never be forgotten.

John's resting place will be Cedar Grove Cemetery on the University of Notre Dame campus. May his soul rest in peace.