Robert Anthony Murzin

Robert Anthony Murzin of Mansfield, Texas, (87) passed away peacefully at his home on September 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Closest to him in life was his beloved wife of 64 years, Rita Marie Murzin, his lifelong partner, best friend, and the love of his life.

Robert (Bob) was born on January 24, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to Adam Frank Murzin and Stephanie Ann Murzin (née Drobot). He was raised in the Detroit suburbs with his younger sister, Rose Marie Murzin, in a devout Catholic and close-knit family. From an early age, Bob formed unbreakable bonds with his cousins Walter “Wally” Murzin and Joe Drobot, who remained his dearest friends throughout his life.

A gifted athlete, Bob attended Roosevelt High School, where he earned varsity letters in football, baseball, basketball, and track; an impressive achievement made all the more remarkable by his recovery from tuberculosis during his senior year.

He went on to play baseball at Michigan State University, but a conflict between team obligations and his desire to be home with family during Easter led him to walk away from collegiate athletics; a decision that reflected his deep loyalty and unwavering commitment to his family.

It was shortly after that pivotal time that Bob met Rita Marie Marcinko at the Daly Drive-In. The two married on April 8, 1961, beginning a journey of love, devotion, and partnership that would last more than six decades. They welcomed their first son, Robert John Murzin, not long after.

While working at Ford Motor Company, Bob enrolled in night classes at the University of Detroit, where he pursued a degree in Packaging Engineering. He became a proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa business fraternity, forming lifelong friendships with Ron Pastor and Reece Pietrowski. After earning his degree, Bob and Rita expanded their family with the births of Christopher Michael Murzin and Nicholas Adam Murzin, all while Bob advanced in his career.

In 1970, the Murzin family made the bold decision to leave Michigan and relocate to Tyler, Texas, where Bob took a position with LTV Corporation. There, they welcomed their youngest son, Michael Anthony Murzin. Shortly thereafter, Bob accepted a new role at General Electric, and the family eventually settled in Arlington, Texas.

At St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Arlington, Bob became deeply involved in parish life; organizing the annual carnival, fundraising, and contributing to various church activities over the 27 years the family were members of the parish.

In 1977, Bob founded Ram Packaging & Crating, an entrepreneurial venture that quickly found success in the oilfield industry. The business expanded into Houston and San Antonio markets before closing in 1983 due to economic downturns. Despite the challenges, Bob maintained his entrepreneurial spirit and remained active in the packaging field.

He bonded deeply with his sons through a shared love of sports; particularly playing softball, and their unwavering support of The Texas Rangers. Sports remained a cherished connection between Bob and his sons throughout his life.

In 1993, Bob and Rita moved to Mansfield, Texas, where they became parishioners at St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Bob played a key role in fundraising efforts to build the new church and served on several boards. He also joined the Knights of Columbus, following in his father’s footsteps, and participated alongside his son Mike.

Bob was a respected leader in his industry, founding the North Texas Chapter of the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), where he mentored and inspired many professionals in the field until his retirement in 2003.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Adam Frank Murzin and Stephanie Ann Murzin, his sister Rose Marie Brohl, brother-in-law Louis Brohl, and his sons Nicholas Adam Murzin and Christopher Michael Murzin.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Rita Murzin, son Robert (Bob) Murzin of Mansfield, TX, and son Michael (Mike) Murzin of Waxahachie, TX. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Keith Schu (Waxahachie), Hanna Poole (Maypearl), and Helena Murzin (Fort Worth); great-grandchildren: Benjamin Schu, Waylon Poole, Eleanor Poole, and Rocelyn Mancera; and his niece Natalie Perelli.

Bob's legacy of faith, family, friendship, and perseverance will live on through the many lives he touched. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and mentor; and he will be dearly missed. His charismatic personality and sense of humor brought smiles to everyone he encountered, and he will forever be remembered as such a kind and special person.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, 500 E. Dallas St., Mansfield, TX 76063. A Celebration of Life will follow in the church hall.