Michael Colton Murphy

Michael was larger than life itself. He was a gentle giant who saw the world through loving eyes full of wonderment. To meet him was to know him and to know him was to know love. Michael made a lasting impact on everyone he met. His smile was just as big as his caring heart. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Michael’s journey began in Ames, Iowa on March 19th, 1993. He was the second child of loving, dedicated parents Lisa Sue and Christopher Colton Murphy. He was not-so-little brother to Megan and great-big brother to Ezra, who graciously spent 32 years taking care of their beloved brother Michael; loving him unconditionally, guiding him, and being ever his advocate.

Michael graduated from Fossil Ridge High School, where he was crowned Honorary Homecoming King. He attended Community Connections after graduation. Michael also attended day program at AbleLight in Fort Collins where he was well loved and well supported. He was a man of faith and knew Christ in his heart. He attended Young Life Northern Colorado and Timberline Church in Fort Collins. Michael had the greatest job ever, Professional Uncle, and he excelled at his work. Though he had but two nephews and one niece, there were so many kids whom he loved and who loved him. He was affectionately known as “Uncle Mike”, and he truly was the best uncle.

Michael LOVED Batman! He also loved bowling and dancing. He especially enjoyed attending dances at the senior center with many of his friends and peers. He was just heartbroken when he could dance no more, though his spirit held up and he remained positive and engaged. He continued to dance with his walker as long as he could. He loved spending time with friends, going to Disney World and eating at Hooters “for the wings” (his words!) He liked watching movies and listening to music on his iPod. Music was a huge part of his life. His favorite song would come on the radio and he would immediately turn his hat backwards, roll down his window and dance.

More than anything else (even Batman) Michael loved his family. Especially his mama. Michael was a Mama’s Boy! He was truly happiest when he was with those that loved him the most.

Life had given Michael 32 years of challenges which, for some, would be difficult to overcome. But not for Michael. If there was a bump in the road, Michael enjoyed the ride. He had an incredible spirit that could not be broken and the biggest heart with room inside for all. He was the kindest, gentlest, happiest, and most generous soul. He was so funny and loving and fun-loving. He was known as “Big Mike” to everyone, not just because he was six and a half feet tall, but because he truly was larger than life.

Michael leaves behind loving parents, Chris & Lisa Murphy; sister Megan Harms, her husband Brett, and their children, Michael’s beloved nephews & niece Bennett, Beau, & Belle; baby brother Ezra Murphy and girlfriend Cody Webster; and by his girlfriend whom he adored, Teagan, grandma & grandpa Sharon & Bernard Uhde; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins; as well as the countless friends he’d met from so many places throughout his life. Michael had touched the lives of so very many. He will live on forever in spirit, in memory, and within the hearts of everyone that knew him.

An Evening Visitation will be held on Easter Sunday, April 20th, 2025 from 6pm to 8pm at Resthaven Funeral Home in Fort Collins. A Celebration of Michael's life will take place the following day, Monday, April 21st, 2025 at 11am at Vineyard Church of the Rockies in Fort Collins. Those who may not be able to join us in person may do so virtually via livestream here: https://www.youtube.com/live/HmDe3L9_hkc Please join Michael's family for a reception to follow and for a time of fellowship, laughter, and remembrance. Michael will be laid to eternal rest at 2:30pm on the same day at Resthaven Memory Gardens in Fort Collins.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly encourages donations to Young Life Northern Colorado, an organization that provided tremendous support and a home away from home for Michael throughout his life. Fond memories of Michael and words of kindness and compassion for his family are welcome at resthavencolorado.com.