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BORN
1944
DIED
2021
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Declan Murphy Obituary
April 16, 1944 - June 18, 2021
Declan Murphy passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 18th, after a brief, hard-fought battle with cancer and Parkinson's Disease. Declan was born April 16, 1944, in Limerick, Ireland to William and Barbara Murphy. After emigrating at age 15 to Burlingame with his parents, brothers Eugene and Damian, and sister Justine, he attended Serra High School, graduating in 1962. He then enlisted in the US Army, completing jump school at Fort Benning Georgia. After serving, he returned to San Mateo in 1965, joining the family business, Murphy and Hartelius, where he met his soon-to-be wife Emily when she was picking up her TWA uniform.
Throughout the years Declan developed a passion for golf, fine food, and travel, mastering them all. His home-cooked meals, with Emily's help, were legendary, as were the many trips to Europe with friends and family. Declan never lost his love for Ireland taking great pleasure in sharing his heritage and homeland, and most of all his Irish family. Despite becoming a US citizen, he remained an Irishman at heart. Declan was truly one of a kind- easy to love and hard to forget, which led to lifelong friendships throughout the world. His generosity was unparalleled and if he could lend a hand or make a difference he would. His quick wit came in handy on the golf course and in life.
The family is so grateful for the love and support of friends and family, far and wide, especially in the last few months. Declan took great comfort in those visits, and the phone calls to Ireland with his cousins provided immense joy. Declan is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Emily, daughter Melissa Armanini, son-in-law Greg and his two grandchildren, Jack and Kate, who truly made his world complete. He is also survived by his two brothers and their families, nieces, nephews and many cousins in Ireland. A private service will be held. Please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or The Michael J. Fox Foundation in lieu of flowers.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Declan Murphy
Sponsored by CLOSED-Crosby-N. Gray & Co. Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Bob Lovelock
October 21, 2024
My dear Friend and Military Buddy! I remember so many wonderful things about Declan. I will briefly mention two. We were stationed together in France. I was lying on my bunk one day when Declan walked into my barracks and handed me 45 album of Maria Callas singing beautiful arias including Madam Butterfly. It was 60 years ago. I still have the album! Another time we rented a Volkswagen and he took me all over Ireland. We bonded and had a wonderful trip. To know him was to love him! God bless you my friend! Rest in Peace!
Bob Lovelock
John Solomito
December 14, 2021
All my best to a great guy who always had good news for everyone. We worked together on a Hawaiian Airlines uniform project and we enjoyed golf in Hawaii when ever we had the time. He was always a pleasure to be with.
Brenda Kohles
July 25, 2021
We just learned of Declan's passing. Sending prayers and our thoughts to the family. RIP Cousin.
Brenda and Monica (Flood)
Dave Mezzetta
July 5, 2021
Murph, I am very sorry to hear about your brother. I always enjoyed his company and the softball games. My thoughts are with you.
Dave
Luke Kevin O´Brien
June 29, 2021
My sympathies to all the family
Healy Family
June 29, 2021
Condolences to the entire Murphy Family
Cece Feliciano
June 28, 2021
Oh no ! I am so sorry to hear this .
It was a pleasure going to get fitted for our uniforms bc you knew you were being cared for by the best . I loved his sense of humor and how he made everyone feel at ease .
My sincerest condolences to his family may the beautiful memories carry them through this difficult time .
Steve Forbes
June 26, 2021
What a beautifully constructed message, Emily and Family! We all learned to enjoy Declan's many loves you shared with us. Each segment became another unique lesson, which has been also shared with many others outside the clan.
So special. Loving. And Remembered. Sir, You are truly beloved and missed ... sf
A true joy was Declan
Laurie Hartford
June 26, 2021
What a wonderful and full life he led. I think you put it perfectly, Melissa: heaven is undoubtedly much more fun with Declan residing there. Hugs and prayers, Laurie, Jim and Winn Hartford
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CLOSED-Crosby-N. Gray & Co. Funeral Home and Cremation Service2 Park Road, Burlingame, CA 94010
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