Francis Russell Murdock: 1922 - 2013

From Fran's official obit in the Post-Star:

He was born Oct. 18, 1922, to Hobart and Mary Hill Murdock in South Schroon, N.Y.

Fran graduated from Schroon Lake Central School in 1939. He went to work for Western Electric Co. in Albany, N.Y., until his enlistment in the U.S. Army early in 1942. He achieved the rank of sergeant first class, serving in the Pacific theater during World War II and earned many awards and commendations, including the Bronze Star. He was with Gen. MacArthur when Tokyo surrendered.

After his discharge, he was appointed and proudly served as game protector with the New York State Conservation Deptartment, again receiving many letters of commendation. He was recalled to service during the Korean War and upon his discharge, returned to work as game protector.

In 1954, he went to work for Drake Lumber Co., where he was general manager until retirement. He was a founding partner in Schroon Lake Oil Corp., Exxon oil distributor and gas station.

He married Rita LeGault Murray in 1963 and celebrated 50 years of marriage in July. They retired to New Smyrna Beach, Fla., in 1984.

During the time he lived in the Adirondacks, he was an avid hunter and fisherman and belonged to the Armdock hunting club in Newcomb, N.Y., where he was highly respected as a woodsman.

Upon his retirement, he spent his leisure time fishing and making fresh-water fishing lures, which he donated to Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club kid’s fishing derby each year.

He was a charter member in both Schroon Lake Lions Club and Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club. He was also a member of the American Legion and a past Exalted Ruler of the B.P.O.E. No. 1494. He belonged to New Smyrna Beach Municipal Golf Club and was an excellent golfer.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Bette; his sister, Arlene Murdock; his brother, David Murdock; and his stepson, Christopher Murray.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Claire Murray Murdock; one sister, Lucille Roblee; one son, Bruce Murdock (Pamela); two stepdaughters, Gail Patricia Murray Beynon (Jeffrey) and Kathyrn Theresa Murray Belles (Arthur); a daughter-in-law, Lutfiya Murray (Harun); 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

At his instructions, services and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Salvation Army. Special thanks to VITAS Innovative Hospice Care and its nurses and aides.