Bruce Edward Murphy

Bruce Edward Murphy, 62, of Tempe, Az. formerly of Equality, Ill. passed away at Scottsdale, Healthcare in Scottsdale, Az. on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2010, 7:13 p.m. He was born on June 12, 1948 in Harrisburg to John Edward and LaVernne (Thompson) Murphy. He spent the first twelve years of his life in Equality, Ill. at which time the family relocated to Phoenix, Az. and later to Tempe, Az., after completing high school he served in the Navy Seabees in 1969 to 1971. His occupation was big equipment operation at various sites in the southwestern states. He was also involved in cattle ranching in Wyoming before suffering a severe stroke in 2006 after which he was confined to a wheelchair and moved back to Tempe. Bruce enjoyed family, friends, hunting, fishing and flying an airplane. He is survived by one daughter, Pamela and Wes Rhodes of Arizona; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren. He is also survived by a step daughter, Rebecca Ronkainen and Chris Fowler, and two step grandchildren. Bruce is also survived by one brother, Keith Murphy of Anchorage, Ak.; three uncles, Harold Thompson of Fountain, Colo., Ted Thompson of Elk Grove, Il., and Monte Thompson of Ridgway, Ill.; two nephews; many cousins; and care giver and friend, Carissa Perez. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Lyle and Mattie (Dailey) Thompson, Lemuel and Edith (Berry) Murphy. There will be a memorial graveside service for Bruce on Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the Cottage Grove Cemetery near Equality with Rev. Jerry Williams officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the McLain-Glover American Legion Post #595 of Equality. Vickery Funeral Chapel in Equality will be charge of arrangements. Internet condolences may be made at the website, www.vickeryfuneralchapel.com.