John Richard Murphy Jr.

John R. Murphy Jr., 87, of Solon, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Solon. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Solon. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre are assisting the family during this time.

John was born on May 12, 1938, in Cedar Rapids, to John Murphy Sr. and Margaret Murphy (Serovy). On June 25, 1960, he married the love of his life, Janet Marie Rundall, at St. Matthew Church in Cedar Rapids, beginning a beautiful 64-year partnership.

John dedicated 45+ years of his life to the Cedar Rapids School System, eventually rising to Maintenance Director for the entire district. He earned a reputation as the guy who could fix absolutely anything that broke. HVAC systems were his specialty, but he could handle it all - even those old boiler systems from back when schools still burned coal for heat. His expertise and dependability made him essential to the district, and his colleagues loved working with him. He retired in 2000.

In 1978, John moved his family from Cedar Rapids to Twin View Heights on Lake Coralville, adjacent to Lake MacBride State Park in Solon. It was there that John and Jan discovered their shared passion for boating, spending countless happy hours on the water with family, and friends.

Those who knew John will remember his wonderfully dry sense of humor and his genteel nature - though his sons might tell you he had a different side when they stepped out of line. John was a voracious reader who could often be found with a book in hand. After retirement, he channeled his keen eye and attention to detail into buying and selling collectible coins, turning what started as a hobby into a genuine passion.

John leaves behind his children: Mike Murphy, Tim Murphy (CatalinaGarza), Rob Murphy, Dave Murphy, and Nick (AJ) Murphy. He was a devoted grandfather to Jade, Maeve, and Easton, and a proud great-grandfather to Jonah and Eisley. He is also survived by his sister Kathleen Groulx (Gary), his brother Tom Murphy, and several nieces and nephews who will deeply miss his presence.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife of 64 years, Janet Murphy, who passed in 2024.

John's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the systems he kept running, the laughter he shared, and the strong family he helped build. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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