Mr. Russell “Russ” Murphy passed away quietly on November 8, 2024, after living with ALS for 3.5 years.
Russ was born on September 26, 1949 in Port Arthur to Audrey (nee: Martin) and Russell Murphy. After graduating from Westgate High School, Russ stayed close to home and attended Lakehead University. As a student, he began working in the plant at Lakehead Newsprint. After graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Russ worked his way up to General Manager, eventually retiring as Vice President in 2011.
On December 6, 1980, Russ & Rosemary (nee: Suikkari) married, beginning a lifetime of travel and adventure together. On January 3, 1985 they welcomed their son Kyler, adding the perfect fishing buddy for Russ and completing their family.
Russ’s love for sports began at an early age. As a young boy he rode his bike to Chapples golf course, carrying clubs over his shoulder. On most winter weekends, he would take the White Falcon Ski School Bus to Mount McKay. From playing football for the Westgate Tigers to cross country skiing and curling in competitive leagues, Russ embraced sports in every season. He was able to caddy for Kyler at many of his golf tournaments through the years. Watching hockey, golf, curling, and football too.
Handyman projects of all types kept him busy.
In retirement most summers found him golfing and camping at Surprise Lake. Winters for the last 10 years were spent in Arizona.
When his Granddaughter, Calla “Princess”, was born a year ago in Toronto, it marked the beginning of daily FaceTime calls with Papa and visits every couple of months, filled with lots of cuddles and smiles.
Russ will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 44 years, Rosemary; his son, Kyler; and daughter-in-law, Amy; his beloved granddaughter, Calla; his sister-in-law, Peggy Wendel; and many other close relatives. He was predeceased by his parents, Audrey & Russell; sister, Maureen; in-laws, Martti & Inkeri Suikkari; and brothers-in-law, Richard Suttie & John Wendel.
For someone who always lived a full and active life, Russ accepted his ALS diagnosis with strength and determination. Despite the many challenges this diagnosis presented, it didn’t stop Russ from continuing to travel and remain positive. He valued many visits from close friends to keep him informed of all of the happenings, both personal and of course, in sports.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Amanda and the staff at the Walford who made it feel like home and the staff of Bayshore who treated Russ like family. Words cannot express the value of this to Russ and his family.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024, from 2-4pm at the Italian Cultural Centre, with words of remembrance spoken at 2:45pm. Should family and friends so desire, donations to the ALS Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
