Raymond K. Murphy

Raymond Kenneth Murphy “Murph” of Benton Harbor (formerly Grand Rapids), MI, aged 90 passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday September 22, 2015, surrounded by family and friends. Ray was born on August 30, 1925 in Battle Creek, MI to Raymond and Gladys (Wallin) Murphy. Ray entered the United States Navy at age 17, in 1942 to serve in World War II. He was assigned to the USS Griffin in the Pacific Theater. He served proudly until the end of the war. Following the Navy, Raymond met the love of his life, Shirley Anne Kryger. They were married August 7, 1954. They lived in Grand Rapids for 59 years. He was most proud of his children Sheryl Collins (Jim) of Grand Rapids, MI and Rick Murphy (Anna) of Benton Harbor, MI. Over the years, Ray honed his skills as a tool and die maker. He had over 40 years of experience in the trade eventually retiring from the Auto Die Corporation. Ray epitomized the Americans of his generation, “The Greatest Generation.” After losing his father in 1936, he became a simple, self made mountain of a man grounded in his faith, family, friends and hard work. What he lacked in intellect he made up for with his strength of will and character. Even though Ray had a formidable presence with big hands, arms and broad shoulders, he was easy to get to know and like. He loved to talk with you, letting you do all the talking. Possessed with a keen sense of humor, Ray had enough one-liners and quips to fill a book. Once he had you laughing he would smile with a sparkle in his eyes. He was a long time member of Grand Rapids Central Seventh-Day Adventist Church. His other passions included, Rick and his friends growing up playing baseball and basketball, spending summer weekends at Paradise Cove in Sand Lake, MI and visiting his daughter’s cottage near White Cloud. He was a big fan of the Detroit Tigers, Lions and Pistons in addition to the Michigan Wolverines. Ray is survived by his wife Shirley, his daughter Sheryl, son Rick, sisters Charlene Silberman, Lorraine Alonzo, and Phyllis Thrift; Brother In-Law Jack Kryger (Marilyn); many nieces and nephews. A special thank you to his sister Charlene for making the trip from Florida to help with his recent care. Much appreciation to the special caregivers in his life Chris Thompson and Marilyn York for the love and care you provided Raymond. Thank you Jann Heileman for stepping in from time to time to just hang with Raymond. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Paul, Leroy and Delbert; sisters Arla and Loretta.Visitation will be 3-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept 27 at Reyers North Valley Chapel in Grand Rapids, MI. An additional time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday Sept. 28, from 11 – 12 with the funeral beginning at noon. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lake Michigan College to establish the Raymond K. Murphy scholarship for a veteran returning to school.