Michael J. "Murphy" Hervey

Michael J. “Murphy” Hervey was taken away from his home on his final “alien abduction” surrounded by his family, on March 9, 2011. Mike was born in Ottumwa, Iowa in 1939. Mike will be remembered by so many loyal fans who listened in to his radio shows from their cars, bars, houses, businesses & even from under bridges. He retired from the radio business in 2004 leaving many fans yearning for more of “Murph.” Mike was also well-known for his work on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Cattle Drive, the liberation of the town of Paola, KS & fund-raising for the Salvation Army. Mike was interested in or participated in many things such as aliens, UFO’s, the Loch Ness monster, thunder storms, gambling, horse racing, wrestling grizzly bears, and all of the best Irish “vices.” He was knighted in Ireland, was the recipient of the Marconi Award, was in a Hollywood movie “The Perils of P.K.,” and authored the book, “Thought I Could Write a Book . . . so I Did.” During his 46-year career in radio, he interviewed celebrities including: Walter Cronkite, John Wayne, Charlton Heston, Barry Goldwater, Liberace, Gregory Peck, Tiny Tim, Larry King, Pearl Bailey, Richard Harris and George Carlin. Not bad for a poor boy from Iowa. Mike is survived in death by his children: Pat Hervey (Cindy), Susan Hervey, Jenny Forney (Greg); grandchildren; Matt & Mitch Hervey, and Hannah & Greta Forney; his sister: Patricia Schmidt (Jack); his nephew: Greg Schmidt (Maureen), several nieces, and his beloved dog, Scruffy. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. His high school sweetheart and dear wife of 50 years, Cathy, passed away last June. He survived the last months through his support of his family, many dear friends, his dog, and the care of Catholic Community Hospice. May he rest in peace. Visitation will take place on Monday, March 14, at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO, from 3:57 to 5:35 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 5:35 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Salvation Army, Catholic Community Hospice, or your favorite local tavern.