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MICHAEL MURPHY Obituary

MURPHY, MICHAEL PATRICK Loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, brother and friend, native San Diegan Michael Patrick "Pat" Murphy passed on at his home October 4, 2012, surrounded by his family and many of his many friends. Pat was born in 1946 to Tom and Patti Murphy in San Diego. Growing up in La Mesa with sister Sharon and brother Tommy. Pat attended Helix High School graduating in 1964 after keeping school administrators busy for four years. After graduation, Pat began an electrical apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers San Diego Local 569, graduating to Journeyman in 1968. Pat excelled at the trade working for the most part as Foreman, General Foreman and Superintendent for various companies. In the 90's Pat started his own Electrical Contracting Co. which he successfully ran until his retirement in 2006 after 40 years in the trade. Pat, or " Murph" as he was often called by his many friends, loved the outdoors, sking, golfing, camping. He loved America. He liked to read and retained a wealth of knowledge / wisdom / information which he was only to happy to share with friends when solicited or often times not. Pat enjoyed traveling with Joanie and also with friends to Cabo San Lucas, the Carribean, Hawaii, Europe and various locations in the states. Pat loved to tell stories about his past adventures and travels and each story reminded him of a couple more and lasted for some time but, they were entertaining. Most of all, Pat just liked to have a good time with his family and friends or whomever was around for that matter. In fact, he liked to say "I'm not here for a long time, just a good time." Mission accomplished Murph. Pat is survived by his loving wife Joanie of 30 years who was with him to the end. Sister Sharon, sons Travis (Michele) Murphy, Jacob Berry, daughters Heather Murphy and Melissa (Eric) Hernandez. Papa to grandchildren Alex, Sonny, Elias, Owen, Patti Lou and Jace. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sharp Hospice Care in Pat's name. The family is holding a private Celebration of Pat's Life.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Oct. 14, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL MURPHY

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October 16, 2012

Joan, I was so very sorry to hear of Pat's passing. Please know you, Heather and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers. There are many people who still think of you often and send you their love and support..... Frankie and Charlie

Billy Duggins

October 16, 2012

I am going to miss a good Brother and friend, God Speed

Cree

October 16, 2012

Mr. Murphy was an integral part of many fun memories through out my childhood and adult life, as my best friends father I spent a lot of good time with Pat and could say without a doubt that he was one of my most favorite people. What do you say about Pat? If you knew him well enough you knew his contagious laughter, behavior, antics and jokes. I was also fortunate to see a side of Pat that was very loving and generous. He loved his wife, children and grandkids with everything he had. Mr. Murphy thank you for helping to create the beautiful children that are my family, you will be missed greatly and your memories, antics, stories and love will keep us with smiles forever. I know you will keep them laughing wherever you are.

Nichole Wagner

October 15, 2012

Pat and his wit will forever live on through stories retold, and thru his children. We will miss your contagious laughter and smile. XOXO

October 15, 2012

i will miss you ol.e buddy love dickie and susie laufer . god bless love u r.i.p burney ca.96013

Gary Castro

October 14, 2012

You onced asked me what my golf handicap was but I never said anything because I was too embarrassed.. and that was 18 years ago so here it is 22. Rest with our Holy Father amen.

Sally Reynolds

October 14, 2012

It was a pleasure knowing Pat. He was funny, smart & kind. The world is a little dimmer with the loss of him. He fought the good fight. See you on the other side Pat. Sally & Bill Reynolds

Bruce MacRobbie, L.U. 569, IBEW

October 14, 2012

Pat and I first worked together when he was still an apprentice and I was a brand new journeyman wireman. That was quite a while ago and I remember him fondly. I still tell stories of our experiences on the job together. He made work fun and at the same time got the job done. He was a good man and I continue to admire him.

As Gene Hamilton said, Pat made positive memories. This is true for me and Pat will always be with me.

Godspeed Pat Murphy.

Gene Hamilton

October 14, 2012

Here I sit in Indianapolis at 5:30 a.m. on a Sunday morning.
Thinking how fortunate I was and am to be able to call Pat my since high school friend.
Pat was my friend and as importantly a pivotal part of my life. And, I am confident that every other person that was so fortunate to have Pat as a friend as well.
Just thinking about Pat brings thoughts of laughter and sunshine into my mind. Pat had an innate God given ability to bring laughter and sunshine into a person's day and life.
And, based upon my personal experiences, Pat also had an innate ability to know when someone was in need of positive emotional support.
He was as good at that as he was motivating people to smile and laugh.
To me Pat was a "Quintessential" example that success in life is no accident. And, that life is full of ups and downs. Pat taught me to focus on the ups not the downs.
To Pat's family I want you to know that I hate that this had to happen. I can't imagine what you are going through.
But, be assured that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
And, also be assured that anybody that was fortunate to know Pat. Anybody that was ever with Pat.
" Had a great positive "Memory Maker" of a time" that they will never forget.

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