VILLANOVA, Pa. — Clifton Earle McLaughlin, 76, of Villanova, Pa., died Jan. 8,  at home surrounded by his family.

He was born in Turner. Nov. 26, 1934, the son of Ronald Coombs McLaughlin and Corinne Lermond McLaughlin. He graduated from Leavitt Institute in Turner and received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and an advanced degree in pulp and paper from the University of Maine at Orono. He received his varsity letter and was a member of the rifle team and Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.

He was also a member of the Instrument Society of America and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and he enjoyed flying his airplane, hunting, fishing, golf, travel, working on his antique cars, fixing just about anything, spending time with family and friends and playing with his beloved granddaughter, Gracie.

He was a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Ordnance Corps, with honorable discharge. He was territory salesman and regional manager for Masoneilan in Norwood, Mass. He was also entrepreneur-founder and president of Eastern Controls, Inc. He held numerous positions in the Instrument Society of America.

He is survived by a sister, Sharon Bremner; his wife, Elke; son, Cliff Jr.; and granddaughter, Gracie.

He was predeceased by his father, Ronald; mother, Corinne; and brother, Sheldon.