Robert Murphy

Robert “Bob” Emmett Murphy, of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, passed away peacefully while in hospice care on his birthday, August 22, 2019. He was 82 years old. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Karen (Austrup) Murphy. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marie Murphy, sister Ellen Bollenbeck, and beloved wife, Lorraine (Nault) Murphy. Bob’s capacity to love was never more evident than his relationships with his family. Niece and nephews of sister Ellen are: William (Joann) Bollenbeck, Robert (Michelle) Bollenbeck, Mark (Patty) Bollenbeck, Leona “Sis” Bollenbeck, and David Bollenbeck. Stepchildren with wife Lorraine: Mary Therese Miller, Frank J. (Penny) Wirtz, John M. (Kathryn) Wirtz, James N. (Randi) Wirtz, Jeanne L. Fonfara, Ann L. Hanek, Jerome P. (Sherri) Wirtz and Margaret E. Brunker. There are 26 grandchildren, 45 great grandchildren, one great, great grandchild, and many other relatives. Stepchildren with wife Karen: Nikole (Jack) Jones, Erin (Rik) Burger, Gregory (Tammy) Austrup. Grandchildren are Anna, Hunter, Mykal, Erik, Mattijs, James, Greyson and Raelyn. Bob was born on August 22, 1937 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was called to the Roman Catholic priesthood, studying at St. Francis Seminary, Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and ordained in 1963. He served at St. Rose of Lima Parish, Milwaukee, Wisconsin for many years. After leaving the priesthood, Bob worked for DuPont and then Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals as a drug sales representative. Bob was a long-time member of the Shamrock Club in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was also a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Diamante Country Club in Hot Springs Village. Bob enjoyed golf, visiting family, travel and socializing with friends. St Patrick’s Day parties always involved singing Irish songs, telling Irish jokes, and of course, wearing costumes. He was interested in the U.S. Civil War, and read many books on the subject. Bob also volunteered his time at charitable organizations in Hot Springs. A memorial service is scheduled at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas on August 29 at 11:00 am. A second memorial service will be held at Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude’s Research Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home.