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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MURRAY, Robert Thomas (Bob) - With heavy hearts, the family announces that Robert (Bob) passed away peacefully at home in Arnprior on Tuesday morning, November 1, 2022. Bob received a new pair of wings; his last tour now complete. He was 94. Beloved husband of the late Elizabeth (nee Bagot) Murray. Dearly loved father of Michael Murray (Heather Innis) of Dartmouth, NS and Valerie Hemphill (Len) of Arnprior. Much loved and proud grandfather of Sean Murray (Marie Frey), Caitlin Murray (Justin Kukurudz), Robin Murray (Alison McIntyre), Ashley Urquhart and Adrienne Urquhart (Kirk Babineau) and great-grandfather of Zayna West, Leon Kukurudz and Rémi Murray. Dear brother of Ralph Murray (late Claire) and the late Stuart Murray (late Marilyn and the late Edie). Son of the late Percy and Ethel (nee Rogers) Murray. Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Bob had a lifetime affinity for the sea. He retired from the Royal Canadian Navy after a distinguished career predominantly oriented at flying helicopters and spent much of his career at sea. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed spending days on the water teasing fish. He was also a great supporter of his wife Elizabeth and together they worked tirelessly with wildlife rehabilitation projects, especially rehabilitating wild raccoons back into the wild. Upon retirement he spent much of his spare time at the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum as a volunteer. He was passionate about Canadian heritage and in particular Canada's naval aviation history. Bob was both generous with his skills and knowledge and quietly donated to many charitable organizations. He was well known for his humorous phrases, political commentary and lack of "filters". In his remaining years he enjoyed his backroad touring with daughter Valerie, entertaining (and being entertained) by his feline companions, and travelling "down home" to the Maritimes to visit friends and family. He lived out his life on his own terms and stayed in his home, as per his wishes to the end. He was the family patriarch. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were a great source of pride for him and he will be missed greatly. Robert's final care has been entrusted to the Pilon Family Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd., 50 John Street North, Arnprior. A private family graveside service took place at the Beechwood National Military Cemetery, Ottawa on Wednesday, November 9th. In his memory, please consider a donation to Shearwater Aviation Museum, Dartmouth, NS. "Fair Winds and Following Seas" (The Ottawa Valley News 04 Nov 2022)
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