John was born to Dorothy A. (Tucker) and James A. Murphy in Dobbs Ferry, NY. He moved to Bala Cynwyd, PA in the 7th grade. John played football and lacrosse at Lower Merion High School. He also earned an Eagle Scout rank. Upon graduation he was awarded a regular NROTC scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania where he received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
John chose the U.S. Marine Corp. option and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in June of 1959. Three days later John married Judith Ann (Judy) Hartman. They were married 64 years. John served 3 years on active duty and 15 years in the active reserves before retiring as a Major.
He served as President of the Audubon-Oaks Jaycees, Valley Forge Military Officers Association, and the Hillview “Vets Helping Vets” club. John opened his own company, R & M Associates, in 1973. It grew to become the largest Roots Blower Distributor in the country. In 1980 he launched Innova-Tech, Inc., supplying wastewater equipment to industries in the USA, Mexico and China.
John became a private pilot and loved flying. He also enjoyed golf and traveling; especially to Ireland to visit his heritage. He was a true Irishman. He was a huge fan of the Phillies and Eagles too.
John was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Maryse, Margaret (Peggy), and Evelyn (Evy).
John is survived by his wife Judy and his brother Charles (Chic), 4 children: Karen (George), Kathy (Jeff), Kim (Scott) and John (Deb), along with 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, April 4, 2024 at St. Basil’s the Great Catholic Church, 2300 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA at 10:00 a.m. followed by a mass at 11:00 a.m. A private inurnment will follow at Philadelphia Memorial Park, Frazer, PA.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Coatesville Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center, 1400 Black Horse Hill Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 ATTN: Jennifer Lilly
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