Mark Murphy

Mark A. Murphy, affectionately known as "Mr. Orange," passed away suddenly at his home in Orange, California, on December 13, 2024. He was 67 years old. Born on July 20, 1957, at St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, Mark spent his entire life in the city he loved and served so passionately.

A proud graduate of Orange High School, Mark continued his education at Santa Ana College before earning both a bachelor's degree and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California. His professional career spanned over three decades at Hewlett Packard, where he worked full-time for 33 years before retiring in 2020.

Mark's enduring legacy is deeply intertwined with the City of Orange and its residents. His dedication to the community began long before his political career, as he was a familiar face at countless city and nonprofit events. Whether attending car shows and parades or playing guitar and singing at the city's Concerts in the Park, Mark's enthusiasm for his hometown was evident to all who knew him. He often said it was his greatest personal honor to serve as Mayor of his home town.

In 1990, Mark was elected to the Planning Commission, marking the beginning of a remarkable 32-year journey in public service. He went on to serve on the City Council and completed three full terms as Mayor of Orange. Despite his many accomplishments, Mark never considered himself a politician; he viewed himself simply as a volunteer. Known for his humility, he often corrected those who addressed him as "Mayor," saying, "Just call me Mark." In his limited free time he enjoyed playing his guitar or taking a ride on his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Mark had an uncanny ability to build consensus on the Council and advocate for the needs of the community. During his final term as mayor, he championed efforts to secure funding for public safety while expanding parks, trails and open spaces - always emphasizing that these resources should come from business prosperity rather than increased taxes for residents. His dedication earned him numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Orange County's "Local Elected Official of the Year," and receiving the prestigious "Citizen of the Year" award in 2010 - a recognition he held especially dear.



Mark made a lasting impact on the community and mentored many up-and-coming Council members. Among his legacies were the acquisitions of Grijalva Park and the Steve Ambriz Memorial Park. He was especially proud of completing the new Orange Public Library across from City Hall. Despite his many honors, Mark never wanted to make a name for himself - he only wanted to make a difference.

In a recent interview with the OC Register, he reflected on his life with characteristic gratitude. "I've been blessed with so much in my life. Everyone should have the kind of opportunities I've had growing up in Orange. Maybe someday when I'm 70 or 80, some kid I've helped along the way will look back and say, 'I'm still friends with Mark Murphy.' That would be the greatest tribute I could ever receive."

As an only child, Mark is survived by his wife Vikki and his mother Lois. He was pre-deceased by his father Paul, who passed in 2005.

A Celebration of Mark's life will be held Saturday, February 1, at 11:00 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Orange.

There will be a reception immediately following at The Villa, 510 East Katella, in Orange.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to

GOCAT - Greater Orange Community Arts Theater

P. O. Box 4654

Orange, CA 92863

www.GOCAT4All.org

Mark's unwavering commitment to his community and his genuine kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory continue to inspire and bring comfort to those whose lives he touched.