As the first-born grandchild, I have so many wonderful memories of my Grandpa Murphy, my dad’s dad, and I’m so thankful that I was able to attend the rosary (we made it just in time Thursday night), funeral Mass (Friday morning- I was asked to do the first reading and prayers of the faithful, my youngest cousin did the second reading) and his burial.

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My Dad is standing next to my grandma in this picture. |
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My oldest son laughed when he saw that his grandpa, my dad, had his famous "head tilt" even as a child! |
Despite the sad circumstances, it was so great to see all my aunts and uncles together again, and see many of my cousins and childhood friends as well!

Richard R. Murphy
Jan. 24, 1929 - Dec. 3, 2017
Richard R. Murphy (Richie, Dick), of Stockton, 88 years of age, was born and raised in rural Iroquois, South Dakota, and received his undergraduate degree from St. John's University, Collegeville, MN. He went on to receive his law degree at Notre Dame University, South Bend, Indiana, where he met JoAnn Baltes (1929-1990), whom he married in 1953. They raised 9 children together in Orange County, CA, Dell Rapids, SD, and Stockton, CA, where they owned and operated West Lane Tennis Club as a family business. After JoAnn's death, Richard married Mary Berry of Susanville, CA, and they had a son, Richard B. Murphy, in 1993. In 2006, Richard married Darlene Gunda, and they enjoyed 11 years together.
Richard served in the Marine Corps from 1953-1957, achieving the rank of Captain. He enlisted after he completed his law degree. Richard practiced law for over 50 years in Southern California, South Dakota, Northern California and Indiana. Richard was very devoted to his faith, and took pride in helping others, both professionally and in his personal life. He relished raising his family and enjoying his grandchildren. He loved athletics and was an avid racquetball and basketball player. He also enjoyed watching the University of Notre Dame football games.
Richard is survived by his wife, Darlene Gunda-Murphy; 10 children: Shannon, Pat (Josephine), Tom (Cheryl), Sean (Lori), Jeb, Tad, Kelly (Jackie), Casey (Tonia), Bridget (Shawn), and Richard B. Murphy. Richard also had 28 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.
In your charity, would you please offer a prayer for the soul of my Grandpa Murphy?
Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.