Murray Robert Williamson

Murray Robert WilliamsonJanuary 13, 1934 - September 15, 2025 Murray Williamson, a legendary coach, player, and builder of American hockey, passed away peacefully at his home on September 15, 2025, at the age of 91. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Murray became an All-American at the University of Minnesota in 1959 before dedicating his life to advancing the game of hockey in the United States. He coached U.S. National Teams at multiple World Championships and led the U.S. Olympic hockey teams in 1968 and 1972, guiding the 1972 squad to a silver medal in Sapporo, Japan. He was also instrumental in founding the Midwest Junior Hockey League-today's United States Hockey League-and coached the first U.S. National Junior Team in 1973. For his lifelong contributions, Murray was inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame and honored by the Massachusetts, Manitoba, University of Minnesota halls of fame and received the Hobey Baker Legend of College Hockey Award in 2005. Beyond the rink, Murray was most proud of his family, calling them his "greatest accomplishment." He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Williamson; sons Kevin (Amy), Randy, and Dean (Beth) Williamson; seven grandchildren-Brittany, Alyssa, Hailey, Taylor, Kendall, Hunter, and Alex; and ten great-grandchildren. Also survived by Patricia's children Bethany, Charlie, and Mike (Missy) Rogers and four grandchildren, Charlotte, Caelan, Caroline and Rhys. Murray leaves behind a lasting legacy in the sport he loved and in the family he cherished. "Celebration of Life" will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Olympic Hills Club, 10625 Mount Curve Road, Eden Prairie, MN