Ruthven "Robert" John Murray

Bob was born in Airdrie, Scotland on September 2, 1925 to Edward and Agnes Murray (nee Dearie). Devoted husband to Catherine "Cathy" (nee Burns) who preceded him in death in 2021 after 73 years of marriage. Brother to Eric and sister Agnes, who both also preceded him in death. Loving father to Agnes Sullivan (Michael, deceased), amazing Papa to Karyn (Rob) and Allyson, and very proud Great Papa to his wee Madelyn.

After serving during World War II in the British Navy, Bob immigrated to Canada in 1953, followed shortly by Cathy and Agnes in 1954, making their home in Toronto. Bob worked on the Avro Arrow, a project of which he was immensely proud. After the cancellation of the Avro Arrow he followed a very different path into the theatre, being part of the opening of the O’Keefe Centre in 1960 and working there as the Property Master for 46 years with I.A.T.S.E. Union Local 58. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and a very happily hard-working volunteer and parishioner at Blessed Trinity church in North York.

Avid travelers, Bob and Cathy had many adventures together spanning the globe. They always had fantastic stories to tell and experiences to share – Bob becoming a very good amateur photographer, capturing all of their many adventures and putting together his famous slideshows to entertain family and friends.

Until his very last days Bob was full of energy, fantastic stories and great spirit. While sometimes pretending to be gruff on the outside, those who spent time with him almost immediately saw through this façade to his generosity and warmth – leaving a trail of very close friends, loving extended family and new fans in the caregivers, doctors and nurses he encountered in his later years in various hospitals and at Gibson House.

Bob was a proud Scotsman, Celtic F.C. fan, loving father, Papa and Great Papa, and an inspiration to us all. Our world will not be the same without him.

Mass will be held at 10:30am on Wednesday, January 18 at Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic Church, 3220 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, with a short visitation prior starting at 9:30am. Friends and family are welcome to stay for a reception following the mass at the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider donating to the St. Francis Table.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kanejerrett-thornhill.ca for the Murray family.

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EPITAPH ON MY OWN FRIEND

By: Robert Burns

An honest man here lies at rest,

As e’er God with His image blest:

The friend of man, the friend of truth;

The friend of age, and guide of youth:

Few hearts like his, with virtue warm’d,

Few heads with knowledge so inform’d:

If there’s another world, he lives in bliss;

If there is none, he made the best of this.