Robert Murphy

Robert Joseph Murphy (Bob), Community Leader, Businessman, and Friend, of Cedar Falls went to be with the lord, Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at the age of 70. He died at Covenant Medical Center of complications from Pneumonia. He was born July 1, 1939 on a family farm in Fonda, Iowa. His parents were William and Helen Murphy. Bob attended country school and Our Lady of Good Council Catholic School in Fonda. He actively participated in 4-H, and Athletics, Farming, and loved riding horses. On September 30, 1961 he married Mary Ellen Hood in Manson, Iowa. Bob attended Iowa State University, majored in Ag Business and was a member of Adelante fraternity. His first job was with Rath Feed Company. Through his early years he advanced into management running all sales and marketing. An entrepreneur at heart, he purchased Geerlings Feed Mill and operated it until he was hired by Land 'O Lakes as their Poultry Specialist. Bob had a passion for people and channeled that trait by being involved in many community organizations. Some of those include: Knights of Columbus, City of Cedar Falls Planning and Zoning Commission, City Councilman, Special Olympics, and Black Hawk County Foster Care Review Board. He had many interests in life. He always put faith, family and friends first. But beyond that, he was an avid reader, loved to travel, played golf, loved cards, ping pong ,and the fall harvest. Bob felt honored when he was elected Iowa Knights of Columbus State Deputy, and was later appointed Iowa Master of the 4th degree. He also served the residents of the city of Cedar Falls for 20 years on both the planning and zoning commission and the City Council. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease 11 years ago. Through his suffering he always demonstrated perseverance with a positive attitude. His faith, forgiveness, caring and compassion was evident in his daily life and he touched the lives of many people. Bob is survived by his loving wife Mary Ellen of 48 years, his children Mike (Chris); Michelle (Scott) and Melinda (Jeff). Six grandchildren; Lauren, Brandon, Chase, Cayden, Dayna, and Drew. Brothers Jim (Sharon), Don (Linda). Funeral Services will be at St Patrick's Catholic Church in Cedar Falls on Saturday, April 24 at 11:00am. Father Eve Hemann will officiate. Co-celebrants will be Father Ed Tiedeman, and Fr. James Starbuck. A funeral dinner will be served immediately following. Visitation will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on Friday, April 23 from 5pm-9pm. With a private family viewing at 4pm. The Knights of Columbus will lead the rosary at 6:30pm with a vigil following at 7pm.

Robert Murphy

July 1, 1939 - April 21, 2010