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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MURCHIE, Joseph Hedley - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the December 6th, 2024 passing of 89 year old Joseph Hedley Murchie. He was a beloved and well respected husband, father, grandfather and Naval Officer. He was also an ardent philanthropist, church choir member and former Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus Council 3133.
Joseph was born 5th of 10 children, in Benjamin River, NB, three months premature to Priscilla Viola Gallant and Joseph William Murchie, on his mothers birthday and delivered by his Mi'kmaw Grandmother Mary Ida Labillios.
His naval career began as an Ordinary Seaman, Electricians Mate in 1953, after which he received his first of many ships postings to HMCS Thunder. Following further training, several ships postings and several promotions, he received his commission to Lieutenant as an Electrical Officer in 1965. After more promotions and postings, including Canada's last aircraft carrier HMCS Bonaventure, he cross trained to Marine Engineering after which he headed up a submarine refit then back to sea as Engineering officer aboard HMCS Iroquois 280, a familiar name as he briefly served as a non commissioned member on its namesake HMCS Iroquois 217 in 1962.
His final posting was as Base Technical Services Officer for Base Halifax from 1986-90 with his official retirement in 1991. Upon retirement he dedicated his newly freed-up time to community oriented pursuits, charities and his grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Edna Frost, his sons Todd and Derek, chosen daughter Dianna Maidment Whyte and her husband Barry, grandchildren: Paulina, Caroline and Maxwell, siblings: Carl Murchie, Gloria Ritchie and Angela LaPointe along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He is pre-deceased by his son Stephen Joseph as well as 3 sisters and 3 brothers.
In keeping with his philanthropic nature, in lieu of flowers, a donation to Souls Harbour Rescue Mission or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated. These are but two of his regular charities.
The funeral service will take place at 11AM on Saturday, 14 December 2024 at St. Clements Church, 16 Gaston Road, Dartmouth NS. A reception will follow in the church hall.
" May all good things get better." - Joseph Murchie (Dartmouth Funeral Home)
Ships served in: * Enlisted in 1953 and and Ordinary Seaman Electrician's Mate, RCN HMCS IROQUOIS - Drafted to IROQUOIS in 1962 * CFR in 1965 as a Lieutenant (Electrical Officer)
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