John Alexander Murrans

Born in Halifax to Frank and Sarah (Sadie) Murrans on April 15, 1939 John was the eldest of three boys. “Muff” to his boyhood friends, he was raised in the West End, he graduated from St. Patrick’s High School and went on to St. Mary’s University. His education was supported by Canada’s University Reserve Training Programme. John served in the RCAF and spent summers at camps in Ontario and Germany. He graduated from TUNS (Mechanical Engineering) in 1963-the first member of his family to have a University Degree.

In those days, employers recruited new hires vigorously. Of several offers he chose Maritime Tel & Tel and spent his entire working life in their employ. During his student days, he met his wife, Patricia. They were married six weeks after his graduation. Full of optimism (and penniless) they embarked on a journey that held all of life’s joys and challenges and lasted 62 years.

As a child of depression-era parents it’s no surprise that john had a strong aversion to debt. He was a diligent saver too. His son, Derek tells of being denied the addition of cheese to a Macdonald’s burger because it would cost an extra 5 cents. John took the role of provider very seriously for which all of his family is truly grateful.

When MT&T offered early retirement options in 1993 John was among the first to accept. He and Patricia travelled to the places they had forgone as they raised their children and had spent time at the campgrounds. He devoted careful attention to his coin and stamp collection and branched out into hockey cards. He had time to go to Newfoundland several times tracing the Murrans (Murrin) family roots. A cross-country train trip to Vancouver satisfied a childhood wish. As a sportsman he was more a spectator than a participant, although he had curled and played Oldtimers hockey when working and golfed occasionally. He was an ever-hopeful Leaf’s fan. He and Greg took day trips and train rides to Montreal. He and Derek went to Toronto and created memories. Patricia pursued charitable and elective endeavors and he gave his full organizational and emotional support. Both being competitive they played Bridge whenever possible-alone and together.

John is survived by his wife, Patricia (Pat, Trisha); sons, Gregory and Derek (Heather Clarke), and their children, Reese and Daniel; his brother, Peter (Sandra) is the last surviving member of John’s immediate family. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Sarah; his brother, Frank (Avis, deceased) and a stillborn daughter.

If you wish to honour John through a memorial donation please consider Prescott Group c/o 5505 Clyde Street, Halifax, B3J 0M2 or any organization that supports vulnerable members of our community. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com