Francis Roger Murray Jr.

Dr. Francis Roger Murray, DDS, 81, of Cape Coral, FL, passed away peacefully at home on November 7, 2024. He was born on June 13, 1943, to Simon Francis Murray and Betty (Klauer) Murray in Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated from Senior High School before attending the University of Iowa, where he showcased his athleticism as a wrestler.

His education was interrupted by the Vietnam War when he enlisted and served as a U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Beret) Medic from 1964 - 1967. His duty ended after being shot. He was then decorated with two Purple Hearts in honor of being wounded while serving his country. Upon discharge, he continued his education at the University of Iowa with assistance from the GI Bill, earning a degree as a Doctor of Dental Surgery. He returned to his hometown and built a robust dental practice. He extended his compassion beyond the office by frequently volunteering his dental practice services at local nursing homes.

He retired from Dentistry in 2014. He then traded in his khaki slacks and blue button-down shirts for tee shirts and cargo shorts and moved to Cape Coral to spend his days on the water and in the sun. In June 2015, he married Juanita (Chapman) Murray. They made many new and lifelong friends in Florida.

Roger cherished his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He was a steadfast friend to so many and provided unwavering support. He lived authentically, pursuing life to the fullest. He eagerly tried new things and had a thirst for knowledge. His wide range of interests included being a runner, triathlete, biker, motorcyclist, skier, scuba diver, paddle boarder, rower, boater, skydiver, pilot, talented wood craftsman and dedicated Iowa Hawkeye Fan. Wherever he lived, his door was always open. He loved bringing people together, taking joy in simple pleasures - bonfires, pig roasts, boat rides, and picnics - transforming small moments into grand experiences. For him, a good meal was the essence of a good day. Roger’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Roger is survived by his wife, Juanita (Chapman) Murray, Cape Coral, FL; his children, Ben (Allison) Murray, Centennial, CO; Kate Murray, Tampa, FL; and Anna (Jim) Francois, Peosta, IA; and his stepchildren, Meghan (Dave) Inman; Richmond, VA, and Cole (Anna) Chapman, Iowa City, IA. Also surviving grandchildren include: Charlie and Cecilia Murray (Centennial, CO); Lauren and Peyton Francois (Peosta, IA); Lolly Hunt (Tampa, FL); Jude and Lucy Chapman (Iowa City, IA); and Aspen and River Inman (Richmond, VA). Also surviving are his siblings: Ann V. Burns (Dennis), of Leawood, KS, Susan Murray Foley (Kevin), of Nashville, TN; and Dr.Ted Murray of East Dubuque, IL.

Friends and family are invited to Roger’s Celebration of Life on December 10th, 2024, from 2:00 - 4:00, at Fathoms Restaurant in Cape Coral. Another Celebration of Life will be held in Dubuque, IA, at a date yet to be determined. Roger will be buried next year in Arlington Cemetery, where there will be a service for immediate family.