Stephen A. Murtaugh Jr.

1926 - 2016

Stephen A. Murtaugh, Jr. 1926 - 2016
Loving and Devoted Husband
CLARENCE, NY - Mr. Stephen A. Murtaugh, Jr., 90, of Clarence, NY, passed away on Wednesday, November 2, 2016, at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Williamsville, NY.
Stephen was born in Utica on July 16, 1926, the son of Stephen A. and Laura (Groman) Murtaugh. He proudly completed his high school education in three years, graduating from New Hartford High School in 1944. After graduation, Stephen enlisted in the US Air Force and began his training to be a fighter Pilot. After his honorable discharge from the service, he continued his education at Clarkson College, where he earned his bachelor's degree in engineering in 1950, and in 1962, his master's degree in engineering from the University of Buffalo. Steve married Elizabeth (Betty) M. Van Hatten in 1950, a loving and devoted union of 66 years. He was employed as an engineer with Boeing Airplane Company in Seattle, Washington, from 1950-1952. In 1952, Stephen accepted a position as an engineer at Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory, Inc. (Calspan Corporation), in Buffalo, NY, where he was director of program development at the company's Advanced Technology Center. While at Calspan, Steve was asked to be a member of the Military Operation Research Society (MORS) because of his advanced research work at Calspan. He was one of the first five fellows of the society and was elected by a unanimous vote. Steve was the only member ever to serve three terms on MORS board and the only person from the industry elected to a fellow. MORS membership of operations analysts and members of MORS is by invitation only and its purpose is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of military operations research in support of defense issues. He had been involved with MORS for more than 20 years. After retirement from Calspan, Steve wrote the code of ethics for the Town of Clarence. He also volunteered with a group of additional volunteers to start Clarence Arboretum.
Mr. Murtaugh is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth, and dear family friends.
Mr. Murtaugh's funeral will be held on Monday, November 7, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. His Rite of Committal and burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Whitesboro. Calling hours for family and friends are Monday morning from 10:00-11:00, prior to the service.
Please graciously omit floral offerings and consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in Stephen's name.
To everyone who was so kind to Steve during his illness, this is Steve's prayer for you: "The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord let His face shine upon you and be gracious to you, and the Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace."
Online guestbook and messages of sympathy at www.heintzfuneralservice.net.