Two weeks after his 88th birthday, Murray passed in his sleep at his home on Gabriola Island, B.C.
He was pre-deceased by his first love, Molly – they were together for 48 years. He is survived by his next love, Julie. Together they travelled the world and Murray often said, “Julie treats me like a king”.
Born just before the Great Depression and pre-World War II in Saskatchewan, Murray left home at an early age to seek his fortune. He worked in the Alberta oilfields and contributed to the creation of the Alaska Highway. It was too cold up there, so the family moved to Victoria, B.C. However, there was no work for a Heavy Duty Equipment Operator, so Murray took a job with Rupert Cement. The family arrived in Prince Rupert in 1965 – the plan was to work in Rupert for two years and then move on – how many times have Rupertities heard that? He fell in love with Rupert and pitched in as a minor hockey coach, referee for Halibut Kings hockey games, softball coach and umpire for baseball. At the time, most umps were called “Blind Bat” and Murray was no exception.
He was especially involved in the creation of Rupert’s first two ski hills at Rainbow Summit. Having been a prairie boy and never skied before, he soon found himself in a tree well. When he popped up and yelled that he was ok – all the snow in the tree came crashing down upon him – Rainbow Summit’s first abdominal snowman!
Many tributes have come to the family for Murray – reminding us that he is a kind and gentle man. He was also a loving and devoted husband, Dad, Gramps and Great Grandpa. We will always love and remember you.