Donald MURPHY

MURPHY, Donald 2008-01-11 Mr. Donald Murphy age 75 yrs, passed away on Wednesday January 2, 2008 at the TBRHSC. Don was born on April 13, 1932 in Winnipeg MB, and then moved to Thunder Bay in 1950 where he finished his high school at Port Arthur Collegiate Institue. He then attended Queens University where he received his Civil Engineering degree. After graduating, Don returned to Thunder Bay to work as a Civil Engineer with his fathers company, Murphy Construction. Don later received his education degree, and worked as a teacher and then administrator at FWCI, Hammarskjold, and Westgate High Schools. He retired in 1996 at the age of 64. Don had a passion for football and loved to coach his high school teams to victory, he did this for over 45 years. After retiring, he continued to coach, including this past season with his son Rob at St. Ignatius High School. He also coached his grandson Michael at the minor league level for the past 5 years with his son Pat. Don was very active in the community volunteering for several organizations. He was recognized by the City in 1991 for his "Distinguished Contribution to the City of Thunder Bay". In 1992, he received the "Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of Canadian Confederation" from the Govenor General for his significant contribution to Canada. Don was a member of the Thunder Bay and Westfort Kiwanis Clubs. He was the founder and Chairman of Kids Connection, an organiztion which helps children with physical disabilities. He was on the Foundation for Independence Board, and the Wilderness Committee for Hagi, which allows disabled children and their families to enjoy a summer camp experience at Shebandowan Lake. Don had a strong faith, and was very involved with his church St. Michaels. Summers were spent with family at camp on Silver Beach, where he was an active member of the Silver Campers Association. Don enjoyed travelling with his family, and tooling around the country with Joan Ann in their Roadtrek. Don will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his wife of 51 years, Joan Ann and their 4 children- Debbie (Bev) Murphy Quinlan, Rob (Marie), Shawn (Keith) Woods, and Pat (Tammy). Don has 10 grandchildren- Jacob, Riley, Kacee, Katie, Sara, Meagan, Browen, Kieran, Michael, and Maggie. He is also survived by his brothers Frank (Madeline), Jim (Patsy), David (Kim), and his sister Patricia (Barry) Smith. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was predeceased by his parents Donald Sr. and Madge Murphy. Funeral Service will be held on Monday January 7, 2008 at 11:00 am in St. Michael and All Angels Church at 675 Red River Rd with Rev. Peter Smyth officiating. Following cremation, a private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Kiwanis Club of Westfort Inc- Kids Connection, St. Michaels Capital Projects Fund, or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. For those unable to attend the funeral, a mass in Don’s honour will be held on Tuesday January 8th at 7:00 pm in St. Margarets Church, 88 Clayte Street. Arrangements entrusted to the Sargent & Son Funeral Directors, 21 N. Court Street. On-line condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com