Obituary of Virgil Edwin Murray

Virgil Edwin Murray

Virgil was born on July 6th, 1936 to Raymond and Teckla (Schmainda) Murray in Avon MN. Virgil married Shirley Rakotz and they started their marriage in Germany as Virgil served in the US Army during peace time. They eventually settled in Robbinsdale MN raising their children, Daniel, Paul and Janice before moving to Maple Grove MN.

Virgil worked for Jesco Construction Company in Bloomington MN, as a Superintendent, for 40 Years when he retired, only to work 5 more years with Peck Construction in Ramsey, MN. Virgil loved his job in construction as he was involved in the construction of many buildings in the Twin Cities. And he would proudly point them out as we drove past them. He was also smart, a human computer, able to calculate measurements in his head and give precise directions without the use of a map. But he would only tell you once!

Virgil was also an accomplished guitar player and singer. He was a founding member of two very special bands…The Love and Handful and the Nitty Gritty Arthritic band. The band consisted of his brother Les Murray, cousin Dan Small and family friend Roy Peterson. They were a mainstay at family functions and golf tournaments and brought joy to anyone that would listen to them.

Virgil loved the outdoors; hunting and fishing and he was also an avid golfer and football fan. He and Shirley were a part of many “Cousin’s” and “Rice and Spuds” tournaments while also caravanning around the State in their conversion van to watch NDSU Bison and Bemidji State Beaver football games.

He is survived by his children Janice (Michael) Ach and Paul (Paula) Murray, adoring grandchildren Miranda Murray, Danielle and Emily Ach, Breanna (Chris) Valentino, Jacob Murray, Jessica (Tim) Sikich, 3 beautiful great-grandchildren, brother and sister-in-law Les and Diane Murray, and girlfriend Lois Huntley.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Shirley Murray, son Daniel Murray, brother John Murray, brothers-in-law John McCue, Philip May, Leroy Rakotz and sisters-in-law Jeanette May and Judy Murray.

Virgil was a caring, loving person. Devoted to spending time with his family and friends. He died on Monday, April 24th 2023 at Abbott Northwestern hospital surrounded by his music and love from his family. Celebration of Life is planned for Sunday 5/28 from 2:00-5:00 with the service starting at 3:00 at Sundance Golf and Bowl.