Roger Murphy

Roger J. Murphy, 77, a lifelong resident of De Pere, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, after a courageous 10 month battle with cancer. He was born September 9, 1935 to Robert and Helen (Liebergan) Murphy in De Pere. After graduating from East De Pere High School, he worked at North Central Airlines before enlisting in the United States Marine Corp. After serving his country from 1956 to 1962, he returned to De Pere and worked for the Nicolet Paper Company for 35 years. In later years he worked for the State of Wisconsin. On October 5, 1963, he married Jacqueline Collard at Annunciation Catholic Church in Green Bay, and together they shared 49 years of marriage. Roger was a Master Gardener for the Northeastern Wisconsin Master Gardeners Program since its inception in 1980. He was a source of knowledge to many for his expertise and love of gardening. Roger was recognized for his countless hours of volunteer work in the NEW Master Gardeners Program, and was instrumental in the planning of the Green Bay Botanical Garden. Roger loved life and lived it to the fullest with his Irish spirit and wit. He was a teacher to many, a loving husband, father and grandfather. Survivors include his wife, Jacqueline, children: Meghan (Erik) Murphy-Berger and Brian Murphy; grandchildren: Isabelle and Cecellia Berger; a brother, Donald Murphy; brother-in-law, William Janssen; sister-in-law, Joyce Murphy; as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by: his parents, Robert and Helen; siblings: Jean Farley, Wayne Murphy and Muriel Janssen. During his illness, he had a devout adoration for St. Rita, the patron saint of impossible causes. Family and friends may visit at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N. Webster Ave, De Pere, on Friday, April 12, from 4:30-7:30pm. Visitation will continue on Saturday, April 13, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Drive, Ledgeview, from 10:00am until the hour of Mass. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am Saturday, with the Rev. Richard Getchel officiating. Entombment in Allouez Mausoleum. Online condolences at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff on the 4th and 7th floors at St. Vincent Hospital and Shari from St. Vincent Hospital Home Health Care for the care and concern shown to Roger and them.

Visitation:
Saturday, April 13, 2013 10:00 AM

Service:
Saturday, April 13, 2013 11:00 AM

Reception:
Mariner Supper Club
2222 Riverside Drive
Green Bay, WI