John Murray

   At midnight on June 19, 2019, John Michael Murray, age 57, passed into the heavenly light of eternity.  John will be missed by many and remain in the hearts and homes of his family as a veteran, guitar master, family hero and best “Dad” and “Papa” ever.  His infectious laugh and kind heart will forever be imprinted on his family and in the many lives that he touched within the local community.

   John Murray was born in Olympia, Washington and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  He arrived in 1980 with a close friend in Minot, North Dakota after honorable discharge from the US Army where he met his lifelong wife and partner, Debora Effertz, and they were wed in Ward County on July 6, 1983.  He worked a variety of construction roles until graduating from the University of North Dakota in 1993 with dual BA degrees in Accounting and Economics.  John was proud to be a part of the Houston Engineering, Inc. family in Fargo for more than 15 years and retired to maintain his health, refurbish every man’s dream Jeep and supply unbridled love and care for his entire family. 

   John was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Murray and Cherilyn (Beebe) Murray.  As the oldest of six children, John is survived by his 3 brothers and 2 sisters who continue to live in Michigan.

   John “Papa” Murray will be dearly missed by Debora; daughter Sarah Murray; son Jacob Murray (Madison) and his treasured grandsons, Gray and Ryan; and son Bronson Murray.  He lived for his family each and every day.  Every hamburger grilled, every song played and absolutely every family gathering will be filled with continued love and devotion for John as a husband, father, and grandfather. 

Please join the family for visitation at West Funeral Home in West Fargo on Saturday, June 22nd, from 2-4:00 pm. 

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center  

westfuneralhome.com

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