David Brougham Murray

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, uncle and friend after a long battle with Parkinson’s. He was born in Viking, Alberta, to Dr. Guy and Muriel Murray and grew up in Hardisty, Alberta. His love of lakes, boating and carpentry developed at an early age, and he built his first canoe at the age of ten years. By the time he graduated high school, Dave had built another canoe, two sailboats and two rowboats. His childhood friends always knew they could find him on Hardisty Lake in one of these boats. Dave moved to Calgary in 1950 to further his education and received his Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. He met his sweetheart Myrtle in Banff, Alberta and they tied the knot in 1955; enjoying 49 years of marriage until her passing. He was passionate about teaching, and he was proud of the many lives he touched over his career. Dave taught at many Calgary junior high schools, including Stanley Jones, Colonel Macleod, Queens Park, Sherwood Park and King George. In 1963 he became the first principal for Van Horne Vocational School. Dave was actively involved in Van Horne’s design and curriculum. He remained principal at Van Horne for five years before moving to Balmoral and Colonel Irvine Junior High schools again as principal. Dave was also President of the Calgary Junior High Principals’ Association in addition to serving for five years on the Economic Policy Committee representing teachers. Dave retired in 1984 as principal of F. E. Osborne Junior High School. Dave and Myrtle moved to their home at Mara Lake, BC, where they enjoyed countless hours with friends and enjoyed boating, art, playing bridge, gourmet cooking, entertaining, travelling and gardening. Dave was a keen Canadian history buff, and he had a passion for building, often volunteering his considerable carpentry skills to friends, family and not-for-profits who needed a helping hand. Dave will be missed by those he leaves behind: his children Bruce (Kim) Murray of Calgary, Heather Murray of Calgary; son in law Don Chow of Victoria; grandchildren Dylan and Tyler Murray, Cari and Jonathon Chow; and in-laws, nieces, nephew and friends. Dave was predeceased by his wife Myrtle; daughter Robin Chow; brother Bob; sister Jeanette; father Guy; and mother Muriel. The family would like to thank the staff at the Wentworth Manor for their caring, kindness and support. Special thanks to Dave’s long-time scuba diving buddy and colleague, George Stephens, for his unwavering friendship. In accordance with Dave’s wishes, a private celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Dad, we hope you are on “Cloud Nine.” In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dr. Guy Murray’s dentist office at Heritage Park; Heritage Park Historical Village (1900 Heritage Drive SW T2V 2X3). Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.fostersgardenchapel.ca.