James E. Murphy, 78 of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 19, 2012 at the French Manor.

Jim was born on January 20, 1934 in Detroit, MI to the late Timothy and Esther (Garner) Murphy. He married Mary Jo Sadowski on January 23, 1965. Together they shared 45 wonderful years, two children and four grandchildren.

Jim honorably served our country in the United States Army as a sharp shooter and weapons specialist. After his time in the service, Jim spent the next 46 years of his career with General Electric starting in the mail room and working his way up to head lighting systems engineer for the entire midwest. Also, he was a member of the St. Francis Catholic
Church.

Most importantly Jim will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Surviving Jim are his children, Jim (Kim) Murphy of Lake Orion, and Mindy (Dave) Wilkening of Traverse City, and grandchildren Marissa and Samantha Murphy and Cassidy and Peyton Wilkening a brother Tom Murphy and many other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held for Jim at 11am on Friday, October 26, 2012 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City with a visitation held one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation to the James E. Murphy Memorial Fund. 100% of all donations will be distributed to the caregivers at French Manor in Traverse City, Michigan. Please mail donations to Melinda Wilkening, 2787 Pebble Way, Traverse City, MI 49684.