Obituary of Robert William Murphy

Robert William Murphy was born in Consort on December 10, 1947, the second child and eldest son of Joe and Emelia Murphy. Bob spent his early life close to his Altario farm with siblings Lynn, Frank, and John, and attended Altario School where he enjoyed sports, especially basketball. At home he trained a colt which became the love of his life, at least until Rosemary arrived. After high school came Olds College which Bob said in his memoirs that he found, "much more interesting than public school." On graduating with honours in 1967, he returned to the family farm. Bob loved nature, particularly animals, dedicating his life to the rolling hills of his farm, the birds, the wildlife, the sun and the big prairie sky. Then he found another love. On June 24, 1972, Bob married Rosemary Young, winning her away from the city for life on the farm. In 1977, they welcomed their first son, Jim, followed in quick succession by daughter Jody in 1978 and son Todd in 1980. Three young children meant a busy life even after the work was done - winter cutter rides with family and friends, skating, skiing, bike riding, fishing, horseback riding and water skiing. Bob worked constantly to improve the farm, planting hundreds of trees, constructing dozens of outbuildings, and laying miles of piping and cabling. He never really retired, but gradually eased off during his last decade, wintering in Arizona with Rosemary where they often hiked in the beautiful Superstition Mountains. Rosemary enticed Bob farther afield on a few occasions; to Australia, China, Alaska and Europe, but always returning to their beloved Alberta farm. Bob passed away on May 16, 2019 at the age of 71, surrounded by his loving family. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 46 years, Rosemary; son Jim (Angela) and their children Sean, Natasha and Tyler; daughter Jody; son Todd (Naomi) and their son Nicholas; sister Lynn Tory (Herb); brother Frank (Donna); sister-in-law Wendy; brothers-in-law Pete (Melinda) Young, Stu (Maureen) Young, and Adrian (Janet) Young; as well as numerous other relatives and friends. Bob was predeceased by his parents Joe and Emelia; brother John; and parents-in-law Jack and Iris Young. If friends so desire, memorial donations are gratefully accepted at: Altario Cemetery P.O. Box 40 Altario, Alberta T0C 0E0