New Glasgow - Donald Robert Murphy, age 91, of New Glasgow, passed away Wednesday, May 25, 2016 in the Aberdeen Hospital.
Born January 7, 1925 in New Glasgow, he was a son of the late Elizabeth (MacNeil) Murphy and Hammond Murphy.
Murph was a veteran in the Merchant Marine. Most of Dad’s working career was spent at the Marine Forge at Trenton Works, retiring after 37 years. Dad was an advocate for fairness and justice for everyone. He held many executive positions on both the New Glasgow Labour Council as well the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour. In his position as president of the United Steelworkers, he fought for fair pensions for workers. In this same light he was one of the founders of the CO OP and Credit Union movement in our area. Dad taught programs at St. FX’s Cody Institute to spread these movements into developing countries. Dad became president of Branch 34 Legion and helped many veterans get benefits for which they were entitled.
Coach Murph became very involved in minor hockey when his sons were playing. One of his recent joys was watching and hearing about his grandsons achievements on the hockey rink. For many years Dad occupied his spare time with racehorses. He along with some others restored the former Parkdale Raceway to what is today Scott Weeks track which many people in our community enjoy.
Murph spent time hunting, fishing and playing cards with his good friends at the New Glasgow Bombers Club. Recently, many hours were spent coaching from the couch as he supervised every sport on TV.
Always known as a gentleman he will be sadly missed.
A special mention of his care givers, Barb Reddick and Rose Boutilier and the wonderful staff of the VON who offered great comfort to him.
He is survived by daughters, Beth, Maureen and Donna Murphy, New Glasgow; sons, Michael (Heidi), New Glasgow; Bobby (Lisa), Truro; adored grandsons, Drew and Tanner Murphy; brother-in-law, Owen McCarron; several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife Annie Irene (MacGillivary) Murphy; brother, Gerald (Tina) Murphy; sisters, Theresa (Gino) Mucciolo and Audrey McCarron.
There will be no visitation by request. Funeral mass 11 am Monday in Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, with Fr. Donald MacGillivray officiating. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Church Hall.
Family flowers only.
Donations in his memory may be made to the V.O.N. or a charity of choice.
Royal Canadian Legion Br. 34 are asked to attend the funeral service and will conduct their service at the cemetery following.
Arrangements are under the direction of the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow.
Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca