James Graydon Murphy, 79, of Frederic, Wisconsin, passed away Friday, Aug. 29 in Baudette, Minnesota. Jim was born in Brainerd, Minnesota, on Dec. 24, 1945, to Clyde (Bud) and Gretchen (Van Atta) Murphy. Jim fell for and married the girl next door (literally), marrying Lois (Hill) in 1973.
Jim was a proud Navy veteran, local business owner, and motorcycle enthusiast. Jim and Lois took many motorcycle trips, taking time to visit numerous beautiful states and taking in breathtaking scenery from the open road. Jim was also an avid outdoorsman, handyman, and jack-of-all-trades. He loved tinkering and making things for others, taking his therapy dogs to the Frederic Elementary School, and most importantly spending time with his family and friends. Jim also never met a stranger, often chatting up those he encountered while out and about, asking them where they were from and telling jokes to make someone laugh.
Jim is survived by his wife, Lois, of Frederic; daughter, Anna (Jason) Murphy; son, Justin (Crystal) Murphy; grandchildren, Dakotah (Jordan), Jonathon (Autumn), Abygail, Fay, Kaitlyn and Dylan; brother, Mike (special friend Pat); brothers-in-law, Edward (Kim), Kevin (Nancy) and Brian (Sandy); sisters-in-law, Juanita and Theresa (Cliff); special friends, Roger and Rita Krause; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many other beloved extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Private memorial services will be held in Baudette, Minnesota, with a Celebration of Life in Frederic to follow at a later date.
