Michael Philip Murphy

Michael Philip Murphy passed peacefully with all his family at his side on August 16, 2016 at the age of 61. He is survived by his two daughters; Erin Skillings (Aaron) and Kaitlin Murphy (Justin Sipoloa), his two grandchildren; Charlie and Fischer Skillings; his fiancé; Wendy Kiefel, his sisters; Mary Glynn and Carol Arneson, and his brother; Bill Murphy. He is preceded in death by his parents; Philip and Elizabeth Murphy and sisters; Patty Stone and Susie Murphy.

Michael was born in Portland, Oregon of parents Philip and Elizabeth Murphy. He attended Holy Redeemer grade school and Central Catholic High School where he was first team quarterback for the Rams varsity football team. Following high school, he earned his social work degree from Portland State University. Michael began his career in social work at Lents school in S.E. Portland where he was, among many things, a staunch advocate of providing adequate nutrition to a student population of many under privileged children. Many would receive both breakfast and lunch to help boost their learning potential. After leaving Lents School, Michael went to work for the Oregon Youth Authority in the Hillsboro area of Washington County as a juvenile probation officer. Michael spent the next 30 years in the pursuit of a solution for troubled youth, assisting not only the kids but their families, and always attempting to point the young offenders in a direction that would lead to success in the future.

His love and devotion for his two daughters was legendary, involving them as kids in all things; sports, coaching, and school activities. He insisted from an early age that attending college was not an option and he was beyond proud when they graduated.

Following retirement, Michael's home remained an open door to friends and family looking for a friendly environment of music and laughter, advice on most any issue, and in many cases, serious counsel. He will be deeply missed by many. May God bless and welcome him.

A funeral will be held for Michael at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church at 1:00 pm on Friday August 26, 2016. Reception to immediately follow at the Kenton Station.