Michael Joseph Murray, Jr.

Michael Joseph Murray, Jr. "Mike" age 89, died peacefully on September 28, 2019, surrounded by his family.  He was originally from West Babylon and East Islip, Long Island, NY., then moved to Datil, New Mexico. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Evelyn Olga Kadane; his parents, Michael Joseph Murray, Sr. and Anna Marie Stephens; and his daughter-in-law, Sheila.  

He is survived by his 4 children,  Patricia Ann Murray-Preston and husband John, Laurie Ann Pohl and husband John, Michael Joseph Murray, III, and Terry Joseph Murray and wife, Jane.  He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and he leaves behind his chocolate lab, Chocolette. 

Dad had an impact on every life he touched.  In high school, he started a dance hour before school and was one of the first male cheerleaders.  After high school, he worked at Pilgrim State Hospital, in accounting.  Mom was a secretary there.  His first day of work, he went home and told his parents that he met the girl he was going to marry, and he did.  He worked his way up from the mailroom at SUNY @ Farmingdale and eventually became Director of Personnel.  During those days, dad donated 7 gallons of blood at the blood drives.  He helped anyone in need.  His love of community made him active in many organizations where he gave his all.  Dad was active in the Catholic Church and became a eucharistic minister.  He was an eagle scout, little league umpire, Babe Ruth league coach and in a softball league.  Dad was involved with Cold Spring harbor Fish Hatchery, Nassau County Fish and Game Assn., Nassau County Rod and Gun Club, Suffolk Alliance of Sportsmen, Past President of Catron County Search and Rescue.  He loved to hunt, fish, bowl, play softball, metal detecting, rockhounding, flying, but most of all, he loved to dance.  He loved the outdoors.  He was the most outgoing and energetic persons you would ever meet.  He never met a stranger.  The day he passed, a small plane flew overhead as if saying have a safe journey and the day was National Hunting and Fishing Day.  We are sure dad would have loved that.  We miss him very much, but he is now reunited with our mom and with the Lord.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to an animal rescue group in memory of dad.  He would appreciate it.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, Nov. 29, 2019, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Datil, New Mexico.  Interment will follow in the family cemetery.  A pot luck dinner will be held afterwards.