Arlene McLaughlin passed away on her 87th birthday on June 7th, 2013. Her husband, Robert passed away a day later in the room they shared at Rosewood Care Center, Moline. The couple married on April 3, 1948 in Viola, IL. Joint service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday at the Colona United Methodist Church where the two had been long time members, holding offices and singing in the choir. Inurnment will be in Rock Island National Cemetery, where Military Honors will be held in recognition of Robert's military service. Visitation is from 4:00 to 7:00 Tuesday at Van Hoe Funeral Home Ltd., East Moline, IL. Memorials can be made to the Colona United Methodist Church or the Rock Island County Humane Society. Through their 65 years of friendship and marriage, many chapters could be written. Their love for one another, their family and their church were the cornerstones of their lives together. Everywhere they went and whatever they did, was together. Arlene was the one "in charge", making sure that they were always where they needed to be, devoting much of their time to their Church and Faith. She was a traditional and practical caretaker with a gentle heart and had a quiet comfort we all felt. Many a quilt or afghan were made as she sat in hospitals caring for her kids or her husband. Robert was a hard working farmer who never seemed to slow down. He had the greatest stories and jokes and his favorites were told OFTEN!!! He loved to share his treasures and tokens and always had something in his pocket or desk to share. He gave talks to the children at Bowlsburg School about his experiences in World War II and enjoyed showing them his souvenirs. Robert would tell everyone that he was one of the few men at Senior Citizens and had to fight off the women who showered him with attention. Arlene would just shake her head and laugh or roll her eyes, knowing that she was the lucky one who stole his heart. Their final chapter tells just how strong and true their love was. One could not be somewhere without the other. They even celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary, both in the hospital. As roommates in the nursing home, Arlene would keep a close eye on Robert, many times refusing pain medication so that she could watch over him. When she learned that his time was close, she knew her job was done and worked hard to make sure their next journey would be ready for them. She got a head start, passing away on her 87th birthday. Like any true love story, Robert wasn't going to be without her so he got busy and joined her the next morning. The many prayers for their strength and love allowed them to join hands again and leave their next set of footprints in Heaven. We rejoice in the knowledge that they are free from pain after their battles with cancer. For every tear that is shed, God gives us a beautiful memory to treasure. They were preceded in death by their parents; Arlene's twin brother, Arlan, their son, Stan; and a great grandson, Matthew. Surviving are Arlene's brother, Richard Haney (Pat) Moline, IL, Robert's sister, Elsie, Hayfork, CA and brother Harland of East Moline, IL. Children, Kathi (Glenn) Ruud, and Mark, Moline, IL Grandchildren, Kimberli Walker, (Jon), Rogers, AR, Michelle Van Horn (Brian), Glen Ellyn, IL, Eric Ruud (Kelly), Bettendorf, IA, Ryan Ruud, Kewanee, IL, Bryan (Amber) McLaughlin, Omaha, NE, Brooke McLaughlin, Davenport, IA. Great Grandchildren, Nicholas Miller, Alec and Brady Walker, Hayden Royce, Harrison and Harper Van Horn, Xavier Ruud, Cameron Ruud, Leah McLaughlin and several nieces and nephews. Many thanks to the Van Hoe Funeral Home, The wonderful staff at Rosewood Care Center, Dr. Garneau and staff, and a special angel, Jessica from Beacon of Hope Hospice. Also, many family members and friends who have stood by us and helped us through this difficult time.

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