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MURRAY LYALL PARKER
Born: Nov 06, 1936
Date of Passing: Jun 09, 2023
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
MURRAY LYALL PARKER
The family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of radio and television veteran Murray Parker on June 9, 2023. Born on November 6, 1936, his 86-year journey ended where it began, at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg.
His loss is shared by his devoted partner, Arvel Gray, his sons Jeff; Kelly and daughters Madison, Alexa and her husband, Gord Mackintosh, and son Henry; Mike and his wife, Susan, and children Jack, Sam and Stefanie; and the boys' mother, Diana Crossin. Also mourning his loss are Arvel's siblings and their families, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and many colleagues and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Keith and baby Brian, his sister, Norine, and her husband Ted Anderson.
The third child of Gene and Vera Parker of St. Vital, his talent for entertaining may have begun in childhood - a curly-haired little boy with enviable long lashes who charmed the ladies on Hastings Boulevard by singing for oranges and cookies. That magnetism spawned a decades-long career in broadcasting, as a beloved weather reporter on CBC Winnipeg's 24 Hours, as host of the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, co-host of the Children's Miracle Telethon and News at Noon, and quizmaster for Trivia and Reach for the Top. Many will remember his silky voice on Parker's Penthouse on CKRC, or his eclectic collection of music and conversation on golden oldie radio CKVN.
A consummate professional, he was a popular MC for local galas and a polished performer in the Winnipeg Press Club's annual satirical review Beer & Skits. He interviewed sports, entertainment, business and political figures from around the world, yet his favourite memories did not involve fame but simple pleasures - the joy of his children on Christmas morning, a fine meal and a glass of wine, or country walks with his faithful dog, Kali. Above all, he was deeply proud of his family, treasuring their love and support.
He had an affection for all animals and volunteered at the Manitoba Wildlife Rehabilitation Organization. Like his mother he was a great birder, delighting in charting the arrival and departure of species that came to feed in the yard.
He was a seasoned adventurer, with jaunts throughout North and South America and Europe, including a cherished trip with his sons to Britain, France and Belgium to retrace the steps of the Canadian soldiers in the First and Second World Wars. He trekked with his great friend Max Johnson through Syria, Turkey and Lebanon, curious about the people and their cultures, seeking the similarities that unite us rather than divide.
He was wise and witty and engaging, able to converse with anyone from any generation on any topic. He could entertain dear friends or strangers with ease yet also sought the solitude of a good book, the creative outlet of painting in acrylics, building model ships, or the joy of playing the organ and the guitar. He was a deep thinker, constantly seeking knowledge, studying Egyptian hieroglyphs, forensic science, and Renaissance art. Some of that objective analysis spilled over into late night discussions with colleague and comrade Mike McCourt, pondering the ills of the planet and what humanity might do to fix them.
He lived his life with force, resolute to drink in every drop of wonder the world could offer. He rode a motorcycle, drove European cars (stick shift ONLY), took up sky diving, and obtained his private pilot's licence.
He was disciplined, determined and tenacious, able to beat cancer before succumbing to an infection. In the end he did not rage against the dying light but went gently, as if his spirit finally decided to slip away and follow the spirits who had come to collect him.
He left this earth with a precious gift – a heart full of love and wonderful memories from a rich and beautiful life.
A celebration in his honour will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial tributes may be made to CancerCare Manitoba, The Winnipeg Humane Society or a charity of your choice.
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2023
MURRAY LYALL PARKER
Radio and television veteran Murray Parker passed away on June 9, 2023, at St. Boniface Hospital in his 86th year.
He left this earth with a heart full of love and unwavering support from his devoted partner, Arvel Gray, his sons, Jeff, Kelly, Mike and their families, and numerous colleagues and friends.
A longer obituary will follow.
Publish Date: Jun 17, 2023 Make a donation to
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 17, 2023, Jun 24, 2023
Condolences & Memories (16 entries)
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I just found out about Murray's passing and am so saddened by the news. I worked with him in the 70's and my admiration of him grew with each passing year. It was a pleasure working with him; he was such a professional, a true gentleman, had a wonderful sense of humour, was so easy to work with and on and on and on. I valued our friendship; he was a lovely, lovely man and I have wonderful memories from those years. Rest well, my friend. You have always had a special place in my heart. Sharon - Posted by: Sharon Spruston (Co-worker from many, many years ago.) on: Sep 27, 2023
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Murray was a true gentleman, always kind and friendly, with a big smile, or a joke, helpful, easy to talk to about many subjects, always sharing his experiences with younger coworkers. Murray was one special guy and I will always remember him! He was a consummate professional and liked by many. His passing is a loss to Arvel, his family and Arvel’s family and many friends. I would like to extend my condolences to everyone. Murray, weather is always sunny where you are! Giselle Majersky - Posted by: Giselle Majersky (Coworker ) on: Aug 30, 2023
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Dear Arvell, Kelly and family, I'm shocked heartbroken to learn of Murray's passing. I'm so very sorry for your loss. I'm also sorry that I'm only now reaching out. I've been on holidays and avoiding news, far too well it would seem. As you well know, Murray was a treasure. We had so many laughs. I'm thrilled I had the chance to work with him. Please know that I am thinking of you and your families, and sending you love. Your friend, Janet - Posted by: Janet Stewart (Former colleague and friend) on: Jul 03, 2023
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Murray lived a full life and was a true friend.He is a part of fond memories for us,going back many years. Our condolences to all the family. Sincerely,Carol & John Cochrane - Posted by: Carol & John Cochrane (friends) on: Jun 28, 2023
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Murray was one of the good ones. I will always remember how nice he was to me when I started working at CBC in 1972 (and to this day regret never thanking him) as a very bewildered 23 year- old thrown into the deep end without any training. Right from my first week at CBC….when I confided in him that I had never heard of the news program 24 Hours and that I did not even know that French language newscasts from Winnipeg existed , he not only kept this confidence, he also told me that I would be just fine and that I would love the work and all the fun that was part of the atmosphere….and he was right. It turned out that Murray was the announcer I worked with the most, and he did every interview,read every newscast, and anchored every program with ease, good humour and a high level of professionalism. Because Murray had so many interests, he seemed to know a lot about so many topics. And his being so likeable and good- natured made the most difficult situations much, much easier. Maybe that is why not only the camera,but also the people he worked with, liked him so much. Murray’s passing is a huge loss for many people, and I extend my deepest sympathy to Arvel and his family. Ms Frankie Glickman Victoria BC - Posted by: Frankie Glickman (CBC colleague) on: Jun 28, 2023
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My condolences to Arvel and his boys. We worked, curled, fished, laughed and spent a lot of life together. He was indeed a friend, thru thick and thin we saw festivals, bonspeils, golf you name it. Muzz and his limericks, love of aviation, zest for life. See you on the other side..Iv - Posted by: Ivan LeMesurier (good friend) on: Jun 28, 2023
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I worked with Murray on air often. He was a consummate professional, always hit his back time count perfectly, was unflappable in the face of technical issues, and consistently good humoured and kind. He was an all round good guy with a deep respect for public television and its importance to Canadian culture. --30-- Muzz! - Posted by: Judy Waytiuk (Co worker) on: Jun 26, 2023
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We had some truly memorable times through my association with Arvel and The Kidney Foundation "Visions Of" Galas. Murray was memorable to everyone. Sincere condolences to Arvel and both families. - Posted by: Jim Walker (Friend) on: Jun 26, 2023
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What a beautiful tribute. So sad to hear of Murray’s passing. He and my late father were longtime friends through work and Beer & Skits. Dad always spoke very highly of him and Arvel. Sending my deepest condolences to Arvel and family. - Posted by: Kim Coghill (Acquaintance ) on: Jun 26, 2023
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We worked at CBC Winnipeg in different roles, but soon came to the same conclusion about Murray Parker: He made it very easy to like him. With everyone he met, whether they were at the top of totem pole or the bottom, Murray was always down-to-earth, interested in the other person, and interested in what they had to say. We are sad that Murray is gone but glad that he was rewarded with a long and very full life. Sincerest condolences to Arvel and Murray’s entire family. - Posted by: Rick and Bev Inglis (Co-workers) on: Jun 25, 2023
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I watched weather reports by Murray Parker on CBC and later met him while working with him at 24 Hours. He was a gentleman with witty comments, great humour, charming smile and conversations with him were always very dear and special to me. II will always remember him. My condolences to Arvel, Murray’s family and Ariel’s family. May your precious memories give you peace and healing! - Posted by: Giselle Majersky (Co-worker) on: Jun 24, 2023
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He was always a welcome breath of fresh air in my living room during the supper hour. I missed him after he retired. I did not know him personally but his obituary succinctly reflects what I always thought he was like. My most tender thoughts to Arvel, who so graciously added to his charm. - Posted by: La Vina Gillespie (Follower ) on: Jun 24, 2023
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What a dynamic and fascinating friend Murray was. Always welcoming, full of interesting stories and wit. His powerful personality will linger in my memory forever. My heart is with Arvel and all those who love him. ❤️ - Posted by: Christine Smith (Friend ) on: Jun 24, 2023
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My late husband Bob and I were privileged to know Murray. He was a kind, gentle man. My condolences to Arvel and his family. - Posted by: Linda Washington (Friend) on: Jun 19, 2023
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Murray was a fine fellow, I knew him in his CBC period when I was in CBW as a Radio manager and he was one of the Winnipeg announcers. A talent great range of abilities, and a gentleman. His and Arvel's story is a tribute to the upside of relationships that start in the workplace. - Posted by: John Coutanche (Co-worker) on: Jun 17, 2023
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Murray was one of the kindest persons I knew. Always cheerful, always friendly and always ready with a fascinating story to tell. My heart goes out to Arvel and his family. He will me missed. - Posted by: Christine Smith (Friend) on: Jun 17, 2023