It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Lawrence “Larry” McGough on May 27. Larry was one of the six McGough brothers who helped found our company, and his leadership, vision, and character shaped McGough for generations.
In 1956, Larry joined his father, Peter McGough, and his brothers in building a family business grounded in hard work, craftsmanship, and integrity. Over the course of more than 70 years, that family business grew into an organization that has served communities across the country, and Larry played an important role in helping establish the values that continue to guide McGough today.
Larry’s influence extended far beyond the projects he helped build. He believed deeply in relationships, doing things the right way, and treating people with respect. Those principles became part of McGough’s culture and continue to define how we serve our clients, partners, and communities.
Even long after retirement, Larry remained a familiar presence at McGough. He could often be found walking the halls of headquarters, catching up with employees, sharing a laugh, and asking about the latest projects and company news. His warm smile, genuine curiosity, and interest in others made him a welcome sight around the office. Larry’s pride in the company never faded, and he took great joy in watching new generations build on the foundation he helped create.
Throughout his career, Larry helped lead work that left a lasting impact on the region and the people who live here. He played a pivotal role in McGough’s work on Saint John’s Abbey, one of the company’s most iconic and enduring projects. He was also deeply involved in projects across the Saint Rose campus over several decades and took great pride in contributing to work at several of Minnesota’s most cherished faith-based institutions, including the Cathedral of Saint Paul, Saint Agnes, and St. Catherine University. During a period of significant growth for both McGough and the construction industry in Minnesota, Larry earned the trust and respect of clients, partners, and colleagues throughout the region. His legacy can be seen not only in the buildings and institutions he helped bring to life, but also in the generations of employees, clients, and industry partners he influenced along the way.
Larry’s commitment to service extended well beyond his work at McGough. He devoted his time and leadership to organizations that strengthened communities, supported faith and education, and advanced the construction profession. From helping establish the Catholic Community Foundation and supporting the Archdiocese’s Family of Faith Campaign to serving in leadership roles with the Associated General Contractors at both the state and national levels, Larry’s influence reached far beyond the jobsite. His leadership, faith, and generosity touched countless lives.
While much has changed since Larry helped found McGough, we can still see his character reflected in the work we do every day,” said Tom McGough Jr. President and CEO for McGough. “Larry cared deeply about this company and the people who helped bring the vision he and his brothers shared to life. We are grateful for the example he set and will continue to carry forward his dedication to people, integrity, and excellence in our work.”
Today, we remember Larry not only as a founder, but as a mentor, leader, family man, and friend. His influence lives on in our people, our projects, and the culture he helped create.
On behalf of everyone at McGough, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the McGough family and all who knew and loved him. The foundation he helped build continues to support our people, our projects, and our purpose, and his legacy will remain a part of McGough for generations to come.
