Joseph Murray

Our Dear Dad, Joseph "Joe" John Murray passed away on June 23, 2021. He was born on November 3, 1932. He was the youngest son of Michael and Mary Murray.

Joseph J. Murray grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He attended Central Catholic High School. He continued his education and graduated from Duquesne University. During his youth, he served as a Specialist in the military during the Korean War. Later in life he retired as Deputy Director for the Denver National Cemetery Area Office Department of Memorial Affairs.

Joe was a devoted family man who deeply cherished his family.  He and his wife, Pam, recently celebrated 52 years of marriage. He instilled many values in his children that include humility, integrity, honor and a strong work ethic. Joe was given the name "Saint Joe" by relatives due to his strong character for  "doing the right thing". He always said, "As long as you are a good person, that is all that counts."

Joe enjoyed reading about history, listening to classical music, and being with his family. He especially loved to sit in his "chair" with his dog on his lap while enjoying a good book and listening to music. Although he was a quiet man, he had an amazing dry sense of humor and quick wit that added surprise and fun for his friends, co-workers, and family.

Our Dad had a generous heart and was willing to help those in need including animals. Many times his generosity was not discovered until years later. He was so humble.   He even secretly donated to the Dumb Friends League.

Our hearts are full of grief and sorrow, as we mourn the loss of our Dad. However, we are grateful he was an integral part of our lives, and parts of our Dad will forever live on through us.

We thank you for being a loving husband, a devoted father, a brother, and friend. We love you Dad!

Joe is survived by his wife Pam Murray; children Peggy Mericle (husband Scott Mericle), Patrick Murray, and Deborah Close (husband Brian Close); Grandchildren John Haynes  (Wife Victoria Haynes) Dalton Haynes (Wife Cryssanthemary Haynes) , Stephen Haynes, Zachery Haynes, Nicholas Close, and Jesse Mercile; Great- Grand Children Emerick Haynes, Sawyer Haynes.

Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, July 20, 2021, 10am, Christ on the Mountain Catholic Church, 13922 W. Utah Avenue, Lakewood 80228. Burial will follow that same day at 1:15pm, Staging Area C, Fort Logan National Cemetery.

Family suggest donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.