May 28, 1921 – March 22, 2012 – At the age of 90 our beloved Murray chose to pass peacefully into the loving arms of our Lord. In life his robust smiles and sparkling blue eyes spread joy, kindness, honesty and respect to those who were blessed to know him. Hockey, golf, fishing, travelling and railroads were significant in Murray’s life. He worked many decades as a railroad engineer. Murray took great pride in all of his children’s accomplishments which includes sons: William (Rusty), Robert Jr. (Bob) and daughters Patricia (Tish) and Carol-Joy. Murray was a courageous man not only in the last years of his life, but also as a child who endured the great depression and as a young man returning as a veteran of the Second World War. Murray will be remembered for his child like love of nature, so appreciative of the sun, especially when it shone on his face. He had an unwavering Christian spiritual belief and a very positive attitude about most everything. The family thanks all who have given their support through blessings, love and concern, especially the compassionate, caring staff of Mauno Kaihla Koti, Finnish Nursing Home, where he touched so many hearts. Honouring the spirit of our valiant father, the family would like to present this poem as it encompasses so beautifully what Murray in his humbleness would wish of us.
“I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun
Of happy memories I leave, when my life on earth is done.”
As per Murray’s wishes, the family is planning a traditional Irish Wake for the last weekend in March. In the spring, a memorial service for the community will be held. Additionally, a small ceremony with The McCarthy Clan in Toronto will take place where Murray’s ashes will be interred at the McCarthy Family plot in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 705-759-2522. Expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.arthurfuneralhome.com