Kenneth "Ken" Robert Murray

Ken was born on December 14, 1945, in Evansville to Kenneth and Helen Murray. One of seven children, Ken grew up in a lively and warm home. He graduated from Central High School in 1964, where he met his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Brenda Render. The two were married on April 2, 1966, beginning a devoted and loving partnership that spanned an incredible 58 years.

Ken served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969, achieving the rank of Sergeant and bravely serving in the Vietnam War. While stationed overseas, his daughter, Jill, was born in 1967. When the war ended, he was thrilled to come home to the arms of his loving wife and to finally meet his sweet one-year old daughter. A few years later, their family became complete when they added a son, Kenneth Robert “Robb” Murray II, in 1971.

Ken was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 1114. Following his military service, Ken dedicated 25 years to General Foods as a supervisor before finding his true calling in sales at Audubon Chrysler in 1992. With his magnetic personality and natural ability to connect with people, Ken excelled in his role, earning accolades for consistently being one of the top 50 Chrysler salespeople in the nation. He formed a lifelong friendship with the dealership’s owner, Larry Bennett, and the two shared many adventures together, including unforgettable trips to Las Vegas. Ken’s success also earned him the opportunity to attend three Super Bowl championships, a highlight for the sports fan.

Ken’s greatest joy in life was his family. Whether cheering on his children and grandchildren at their games, celebrating their achievements, or enjoying family vacations at Clearwater Beach, Florida—his favorite place on Earth—Ken’s heart was fullest when surrounded by those he loved. His legacy of warmth, generosity, and devotion lives on in his wife, Brenda; his daughter, Jill Collins (Jock) of Evansville; his son, Robb Murray (Coco) of Chapel Hill, NC; and his five beloved grandchildren: Makenzie Murray of Raleigh, NC; Nick Collins and Joey Collins of Evansville; Christian Ernteman of Sacramento, CA; and Stirling Ernteman of Everett, WA.

Ken is also survived by his siblings: Donna White (Vic) of Pharr, TX; Viv Diehl (Gary) of Lynchburg, VA; Michael Murray (Jean) of West Virginia; Theresa Murray-Osborne of Evansville; and Rick Murray of Evansville. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Kenneth, and his brother Darryl.

Faith was also an important part of Ken’s life, and he was a longtime member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Evansville, where he found spiritual nourishment and a community of friends.

A celebration of Ken’s remarkable life will take place at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Alexander East Chapel, 2115 Lincoln Ave., Evansville, IN 47714 with Pastor George Purnell officiating. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. A Military Service will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home conducted by the Retired Veterans Memorial Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association in his honor.

Ken Murray was a true American hero, a patriarch, a leader, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a friend to many. His life was a testament to the values of family, love, loyalty, and perseverance, and the world is a better place because of him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.