Daniel Murley

1947 - 2018

Daniel F. Murley, 70

Timber Cove, CA - Daniel Francis Murley passed away at 70 in Timber Cove, California, Tuesday February 27th of natural causes. He is survived by his wife Sandra Hollimon, two daughters, Hannah Murley, 26, of Corvallis, OR and Oona Murley, 24, of Manhattan, NY. He is also survived by 6 siblings and their spouses: Jeff and Maureen Murley, Mary and Dennis McGee, Dr. Joseph and Mary Murley, Michael Murley and Cindi Collins, Ellen and Tom Mirarchi, and Sheila and Tim Herbst. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was born in Worcester, MA to James and Elizabeth (MacDonald) Murley on December 19, 1947.

Danny, as he was known to his friends and family, received an exemplary Catholic education culminating with his graduation from St. John's High School in 1965. He then received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 1969, later earning a Master's Degree from San Francisco State University in 2003. A Vietnam era veteran, he served in the United States Army in Germany where he earned top security clearance. After completing his military service, he pursued a fruitful career with California State Parks. The bulk of his nearly 30 year career took place at Fort Ross State Historic Park. It was here that Daniel indulged in his scholarly research with focus on Russian America, and particularly the Native people of Alaska. He emphatically expressed his love for the field in realms both academic and public. An avid naturalist, ornithologist, and photographer, he spent most of his time outdoors leading hikes, gardening, and pursuing his passion for archaeology, which is how he met his wife Sandra. Following his retirement from parks he became the Curator of the Healdsburg Museum for 6 years.

Dan was a man of many hobbies and interests. His passion for music began in his youth as a choirboy and could be heard throughout his life via constant recitations of his favorite lyrics as well as his own compositions with his songwriting partner Terry Hartman. Their songs were influenced by the likes of John Lennon, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, John Prine and more. A wordsmith and poet in his own right who wrote a weekly column for 35 years, he loved the writings of Billy Collins, Edward Abbey, Robert Frost, and Jack London. He will be remembered for his inimitable sense of humor and mischief, which brought a smile to most everyone he met and will undoubtedly endure.

Of his many accomplishments, his proudest role was that of father to his two daughters. His greatest joy was sharing his passions with Hannah and Oona who carry on his legacies in photography, poetry, and music. A beloved friend, brother, husband, and father, he will be sorely missed but fondly remembered.

A celebration of Dan's life will take place in May of 2018 on the Northern California Coast, and in October of 2018 in Worcester. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Daniel F. Murley to St. John's High School, 378 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.