James Douglas McMurray

James Douglas McMurray

August 10, 1937 – May 8, 2026

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of James Douglas McMurray oon May 8 th , 2026. We are thankful he went the way he wanted, at home, quickly, unexpectedly with family by his side. Born to W.D “Bill” McMurray (predeceased 1982) and Katie McMurray (Blue) (predeceased 1967) on the family homestead where he lived for 88 years.

He was the eldest of 8 siblings, Marlene (predeceased) infant sibling (predeceased) Beverly (Sandra) both predeceased), Shirley (Lyle), Art (Marg) (both predeceased), Eileen (Alvin) (both predeceased) Don (predeceased) (Joan).

 He married his sweetheart, Lestie Boniface on March 23, 1957, and they had 5 children, Janet McMurray (Rick), Rick McMurray (Barbara), Deb Kankowski (Richard predeceased) Diane (predeceased 1958) and infant son (predeceased 1967).            

Proud grandparents of 9 grandchildren, Amber, Allan, Brittany (Kevin), Nicole (Steve), Jason (Leah), Jesse (Claudia),

 Courtney, Bradey (David) and Riley.  He leaves behind 15 great – grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who will miss him.    Dad never really got over Mom’s passing in 2003, and he grieved that loss until the day he passed.

 Marion Case, a companion of many years helped Dad enjoy life after Mom passed and we are very grateful for her presence in his life.  She filled a void that eased the loneliness until she passed in 2023.

 In the early years Dad supported his young family by cutting wood in the winter and carpentry work in the summer.   He was always mechanically inclined and eventually went to work as a mechanic in Mindemoya.  When an opportunity came to work for the MNR at the research station close to home he took it.  There he mended nets, was the grounds keeper, tug operator etc. until the lab closed.   Dad and Mom then purchased Manitoulin Vault & Concrete and built a thriving business which they eventually sold and they retired.   They enjoyed traveling, camping and fishing which they did a lot of before Mom passed away, Dad also enjoyed hunting and he continued doing the things he enjoyed for many years with Marion, however Dad especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

Dad was one of the original founders of the Tehkummah Volunteer Fire Department.  He loved riding his motorcycle and cruised the roads of Manitoulin everyday the weather permitted.  You never knew where you would see him.

He loved talking to people and became known for his stories and jokes. He was the first to play a practical joke on people and loved to make them laugh.  He was always ready to lend a helping hand, and many have benefitted.  He will be greatly missed by friends, family and neighbors.

 Dad was proud of the closeness of his children; we all tried to be in touch daily and visit as often as we could.  We are all comforted by the fact that he is back with Mom, the love of his life and he is no longer lonely.  Words cannot express how much we will all miss him.  Dad, we will carry you forever in our hearts and you will live on in all the wonderful memories you have left us with.    With all our love until we meet again………. Your family

Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury, and Crystal Crematorium.

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