JOHN GORDON LEO MURPHY

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JOHN GORDON LEO MURPHY On April 8, 2006, at Concordia Hospital, Gordon, aged 93 passed away with his family by his side. Gordon is sadly missed by his wife Gloria of 63 years; his children, Mickey (Judy) Murphy, Pat (Doug) Kapilik, Debbie (Larry) MacDonald and Pam (Barry) Murphy; grandchildren, Rhonda McKay (Neill), Richelle, Colin, Lorinda, David, Renata, Ryan, Brennen; and great-grandchildren, Andrew and Nathan of Duluth, GA; sister Hazel Young of Alberta and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Bill; and sisters, Florence Smith and Helen Schriml. Gordon was born on January 18, 1913 in Adanac, SK. He acquired his Saskatchewan Embalmers license while employed with Boyd Funeral Home in North Battleford. During the Second World War he served with the Canadian Army Medical Corps. In 1942, Gordon married Gloria and they moved to Winnipeg in 1946. Over the years Gordon worked as a butcher for Swifts Canadian, he also owned and operated an upholstery business with his brother-in-law Joe Fero. In 1950 he obtained his Manitoba Embalmers License. In 1952 he began working with Local 63 I.A.T.S.E. Theatrical Union, touring with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the National Festival Ballet of London, England. Through his work with the union and television many years were spent at the Winnipeg Arena. He was well known by most of the staff and management as well as the players from The Winnipeg Jets and the Manitoba Moose. In 2002 Gordon was recognized for 50 years of service with I.A.T.S.E. In 1954 he began his career with C.B.C. Television as a Chief Crew Leader eventually retiring in 1972. Around this time he started his own lighting business, Murphy Gordon Lighting which was taken over by his son Bill in 1988. Gordon was every bit the Irishman and was very proud of his heritage. He enjoyed a good ribbing and was always willing to reciprocate. He loved sports, especially hockey, and heated debates concerning politics always provided much excitement. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, April 12 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Alphonsus Church, Munroe at Brazier, with Brother George Villegas presiding. Viewing will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Special thanks to the staff at Concordia Place Personal Care Home for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the C.N.I.B., CancerCare Manitoba, or the William Billy T. Murphy Memorial Theatrical Scholarship, through the University of Winnipeg. KLASSEN FUNERAL HOME 1897 Henderson - North of McIvor - 338-0331

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 11, 2006