John Michael Laughlin July 15, 1962 - June 20, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of John “Paco” Laughlin, who left us on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the age of 62. John was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and a loyal friend to many.

Though he left this world too soon, we find comfort in knowing he is now reunited in heaven with his beloved parents, Bob and Marg, and younger brother, Don.

Born in Anaconda, Montana, on July 15, 1962, John had a vibrant childhood filled with neighborhood adventures, sports, and the kinds of friendships that would last a lifetime. At Anaconda High School, he was an active and well-loved student, participating in baseball, football, bowling, track, and various clubs. He was known for cruising around town in his Pontiac convertible and Bob’s Model A. Many remember the warm, welcoming meals that his mother Marg prepared for him and all of his friends, even into their adult years.

After graduating high school in 1980, John pursued his passion for engineering at Montana State University in Bozeman, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology in 1985. Shortly after, he moved to Southern California to begin what would become a distinguished 37-year career in the aerospace industry.

John’s first role involved testing fuel systems for the B-1B bomber, which marked the beginning of an extraordinary career designing, developing, and testing fuel and environmental control systems for the world’s most advanced aircraft. His expertise and commitment to national security made him a revered figure in the aerospace community, with contributions spanning the X-31 Demonstrator, Space Shuttle, B-2 Spirit Bomber, RQ-3 Darkstar UAV, X-35 Fighter, F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, B-21 Raider, C130J and numerous other classified projects.

John was a true patriot and was deeply dedicated to supporting our Nation’s defense. He was widely respected as one of the top fuel system design engineers in the world and was equally admired for his passion in mentoring young engineers and passing on his vast knowledge of aircraft systems.

After retiring in May 2022, John settled in Buckeye, Arizona, where he enjoyed a well-earned slower pace of life, spending time with friends, soaking in the sunshine, and riding his Harley-Davidson. He frequently traveled back to Butte to tend to his mother before her passing, and never missed a party.

A die-hard sports fan, John cheered for the New York Yankees, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and had season tickets for his alma mater, the Montana State Bobcats. While the majority of his life was spent outside of Montana, he never lost sight of his love for the State - he was an avid fan of Anaconda and Butte high school sports. He especially loved traveling back to Bozeman during football season to attend Bobcat home games and reunite with his tailgating crew. 

Known for his wit, storytelling, and sharp sense of humor, Paco had a gift for making people laugh and feel at home. He remained a thoughtful and steadfast friend to those who knew him—many since childhood—and never lost touch with the people and places that shaped him.

John “Paco” Laughlin leaves behind a legacy of technical brilliance, unwavering friendship, and a heart full of generosity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Donald; and grandparents Coleman and Irma Laughlin and Louis and Katherine Pochervina. He is survived by his sister Robin; and brother-in-law Jim Mantell; nieces Miranda (Keith) Gallagher, Kailee (Kevin) Fabatz, and Ali (Caleb) DesJarlais; as well as several great nieces and nephews including countless close friends who considered him family. 

A memorial service for John will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:30 am:

Holy Family Catholic Church

217 W Pennsylvania

Anaconda, MT

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the John Laughlin Memorial fund, which has been established to support scholarships for deserving students from Anaconda/Butte pursuing an engineering degree at Montana State University.  Donations can be made through the One Valley Community Foundation to the John Laughlin Memorial fund: https://bacf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3266