Aug. 20, 1951-May 20, 2024
William “Harry” Harold Lane, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on May 20, 2024, at the age of 72, surrounded by his family. Born on Aug. 20, 1951, in Buffalo, New York, Harry was the third youngest of seven children and a cherished son of Walter McLaughlin and Doris Van Volkenburg.
Harry’s early years were a testament to his resilience and determination. Growing up on a farm in Buffalo, New York, he was surrounded by an eclectic mix of animals, including a pig, a goat, a monkey and a skunk. These formative years were filled with adventure and mischief as he and his brothers engaged in antics that would later become treasured family stories. Despite not finishing high school, Harry’s unwavering determination and drive led him to earn his GED before age 21. His pursuit of knowledge continued at Arizona State University, where he majored in biology and math. He later earned a master’s degree in chemistry, followed by a doctorate in dentistry from the University of Southern California.
Harry established a successful dental practice in Glendora, California, where he was known for his gentle and skillful approach, especially his painless injections, earning him the name “Painless Pete.” This exceptional skill was commemorated by a framed dollar bill on his office wall, a testament to a bet he won for delivering an injection that a patient couldn’t feel. His practice attracted a diverse clientele, ranging from local community members to professionals working in Hollywood, reflecting his reputation for excellence and care.
In 1990, Harry’s life took a joyous turn when he married Jaclyn “Colleen” Stallard, the love of his life. They relocated to Central California’s picturesque Pismo Beach area, where Harry continued his dental career in a partnership practice. They later moved to Victorville, Diamond Bar, and then San Diego, where he practiced, consulted and performed diagnostic dentistry until retirement.
Harry’s love for his family was boundless. Although he never had children of his own, he always longed for them. His dream came true when he married Colleen and embraced her daughter Virginia as his own. Harry’s love for Virginia was unconditional; he adored her deeply and treated her with the love and care of a biological father. This bond extended to Virginia’s daughters Dominique, AshleyRenee and Sabrina, whom Harry cherished as his beloved grandchildren. He embraced the role of a devoted grandfather, lovingly called “Papa,” a name that symbolized his unique blend of fatherly and grandfatherly love.
Harry’s life was enriched by his many passions, including racquetball, skiing, golfing and flying his own Cessna plane. An accomplished cook, he delighted in preparing gourmet dinners. One of which he cooked for Virginia and her friends for their junior homecoming. He was also a certified scuba diver and an avid traveler, exploring destinations like Italy, Hawaii and the Caribbean. A highlight of his life was a seven-day Caribbean cruise honeymoon with Colleen.
An avid supporter of the USC Trojan football team and a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan, Harry’s enthusiasm for sports was matched by his dedication to his faith. Before marrying Colleen, Harry was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He took great pride in being sealed with her in the Saint George Temple on June 10, 2015.
Harry is survived by his loving wife Jaclyn Colleen Lane; his stepdaughter Virginia Stallard Grenier (Justin); and his grandchildren Dominique Pellonari, AshleyRenee Grenier and Sabrina Grenier. He is also survived by his brothers Jim McLaughlin (Jean) and twins Ron and Don McLaughlin. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Jack McLaughlin Walter McLaughlin and Doris McLaughlin.
Harry’s sense of humor, generosity, intelligence, loyalty and love for his family defined his life. His patience, kindness and dedication will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter and cherished memories will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
Funeral services will be Saturday, June 1, at 10 a.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah. There will be a visitation prior to services from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
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Arrangements are under the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Click here to visit the Metcalf Mortuary website for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.