Winston Murray

Winston M. Murray age 85 of Grand Detour passed away on Wednesday June 6, 2012 at his home while surrounded by his family. He was born June 30, 1926 in Kewanee, IL the son of Herbert and Ardis (Adams) Murray. Winston was a WW II Army veteran and after his service he enrolled at Iowa State University. After two years he returned to the family farm, where he worked until resuming his education at the University of Illinois. After completing his degree, he joined Farm Service (now Growmark Inc.) where he worked 27 years, retiring in 1986 as a Regional Marketing Director. Winston was an active participant in civic and community affairs. He was a dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church, Kiwanis Club (Kiwanian of the Year 2007-08), and Illinois Farm Bureau; and he served 18 years on the KSB Hospital board, including two terms as chair. His volunteer service with PADS helped establish a new facility for the organization. He was named Dixon Citizen of the Year in 2008. Winston married Joan "Jo" Green December 25, 1947 in Toulon, IL. She preceded him in death November 27, 2007. He was also preceded in death by his parents, a daughter Patricia, a granddaughter Faith. He is survived by his children Michael (Libby) Murray of Charleston, IL, Cynthia Murray of Davenport, IA, Suzan (Tom) Schober-Murray of Green Bay, WI and Rodney (Andrea) Murray of Seattle, WA; four granddaughters Lauren, Andrea, Shannon and Melissa; three great grandchildren, Nikayla, Brooke and Carter; brother Hayden (Juanita) Murray of Bloomington, IN; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful canine companion, Brodie. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Tawny Hamill and Serenity Hospice and Home for their loving care. Memorial services will be held on Saturday June 9, 2012 at 10:00 AM in the First Presbyterian Church in Dixon with the Rev. David Spaulding officiating. Burial of cremains will follow at 2:00 PM in the Elmira Cemetery in Elmira, IL. Calling hours will be on Friday June 8, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in the Jones Funeral Home. Memorial gifts may be designated to: First Presbyterian Church, KSB Hospital, or Serenity Hospice and Home.

Winston Murray

June 30, 1926 - June 6, 2012