William “Bill” Murphy, 89, of Rockford, Illinois passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026. He was born February 2, 1936 to Emmett and Mary (Minnihan) Murphy in Rockford, Illinois. He married the love of his life, Clarice Torkelson, on March 2, 1957. Bill grew up living on a farm and went on to work for Rockford Ordinance Defensive and then for many years poured and finished concrete. He then worked delivering appliances at Chas V Weise’s and then Rockford Township’s Highway Department until his retirement. He was very proud of his service in the Army, after he was discharged he joined the local American Legion and VFW Post 5149. He was also a member of the Moose Club, Blackhawk Athletic Club, and SM & SF Club. When John F. Kennedy campaigned in Rockford Bill and his boss, Hank Meyers, had the opportunity to shake his hand. Bill enjoyed working in his garage, mowing his lawn, and helping people. Most of all, Bill loved spending time talking to his family and friends.
Bill is survived by his wife of 68 years, Clarice Murphy; son, Michael (Susan) Murphy; grandchildren, Meg (Loren) Palmer, Kaitlyn Murphy, and Jonathon Murphy; great-grandchildren, Maggie, Poppie, and Lander; sisters, Elizabeth DeBaere and Shirley Barber; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett and Mary Murphy; along with many relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice or Friends of Rockford Police K9.
A visitation for Bill will be held on Monday, February 9 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL 61115. Entombment rites to follow.
