John R. Murtaugh

Sitting at my desk this sunny day, I received an email about Benson Tech undergoing a major renovation, and began to reminisce. My first thought was of Mr. Murtaugh, so I looked him up online to see what he might be up to. Too late. I apologize to Mr. Murtaugh, his family, and friends for a long overdue thanks to a great man with a lasting influence on me. I graduated from Benson in 1977, majoring in architecture under John Murtaugh both my junior and senior years. Until today, I...

If any of my cousins read this, please contact me through my email or 330-936-4899. Have so many questions about my lineage on the Murtaugh side of the family.

I had two teachers in my education that made a profound impression on my life, and I've fondly thought about "Captain John" as his students all called him. I had the good fortune of being in John Murtaugh's 1974 classrooom in Benson Polytechnic, as it was known in those days. We had a first name in common and love of Architecture. We could not have asked for a more devoted and well loved teacher- especially when in those days, Benson more resembled a military school, than what it has been...

I was a student of his at Benson(1973), we will miss him.

I knew John when he was a practicing architect, and father of my one-time high school girl friend, Mary Ann. He was a fine man who did excellent professional work. I still notice some of his buildings around Portland. My condolences to the family and best wishes to them.

John and Betty are part of the great memories of our childhood and teen years. John was a kind man and we respect him greatly. We are so sorry for your loss. Warmly, John and Sue (Precechtil) Wirick

I was saddened to learn of John’s death. I had the pleasure to meet a know John when he was at Benson. While it easily has been over 25 years since we met and I last saw him, I remember how much he enjoyed his time there. He truly was an inspiration and mentor to students, and he knew he was doing everything he could to make a difference.

Dear Betty,
We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. Our hearts go out to you and your family. I will always have wonderful memories of John and his great sense of humor! Both of you have made impressions on my life - even if you weren't aware of it. Thank you and keep in touch. We would love to hear from you!

We are sorry to hear of John's death. May the comfort and strength of the words' be yours.