James "Murf" P. Murphy's Obituary
James Patrick Murphy “Murf”, age 65, lived in Waupaca, WI. He peacefully departed this world for better fishing and hunting grounds on Monday, March 10, 2025. He was born on October 21, 1959 in Port Washington, WI to Eugene and Mary Jane (Lodle) Murphy. Jim married his beloved wife, Kelly Jo Haley (Kerrigan) on August 6, 2011.
He went to culinary school and worked at the Astor Hotel, where he had the pleasure of serving Ronald Reagan. He was always so proud when he would tell that story.
Jim lived in Saukville, WI for over 27 years where he was a volunteer fire fighter. He was a man with a big heart that would give anyone the shirt off his back if needed.
He moved to a Waupaca, WI and was employed at the Waupaca Foundry for twelve years. At the same time, he ran Murphy’s Pub, where he was everyone’s favorite bartender. He then moved to Oshkosh, WI where he worked at Oshkosh Truck for seven years. Another job that he was so proud of.
He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast that led him to become a devoted member of the Guardians of the Children, Wolf River Chapter, a nonprofit motorcycle group that supports child abuse victims.
He loved to share his cooking and baking goods with family and friends. His abundance of legendary cookies became a coveted prize for fellow hunters at deer camp. His presence was always welcome wherever he went with his easy-going nature, one-line jokes, pranks and laughter.
Jim will be profoundly missed by every soul that was touched by his presence. He is survived by his ever so patient wife, Kelly Murphy of Waupaca; four children, Corina Murphy of Antigo, Amber Murphy of Fond du Lac, Lucas Murphy of Watertown, and Travis (fiancée Kayla) Murphy of Waukesha; two step-children, Jennifer (Clint) Lubinski of Waupaca and Jackie Haley of Waupaca; many grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; his three siblings, Sandy Maynard of Hartford, Gary (Connie) Murphy of Fredonia, and Tom (Anne) Murphy of Saukville; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and MaryJane Murphy, and a sister, Nancy Mueller.
A Celebration of Murf’s Life will be held on Saturday April 26, 2025 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Hidden Waters Golf Club. In honor of Jim “Murf” raise a glass and hold close to those whom you love. The family would appreciate for anyone wishing to send condolences to visit gocwolfriver.com. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
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