fbpx

Howard Murphy

Howard Harvey Murphy, age 96 of Baldwin, passed away August 22, 2015 at the American Heritage Care Center in Hammond. Howard was born December 27, 1918 in Janesville, MN, the son of Lee and Pearl (Bevens) Murphy. He graduated from the Woodville High School, Class of 1937. After High School, Howard worked for his dad on the family farm until 1941. At the age of 19 he was drafted in the United States Army during World War II. During his service time, Howard’s rank accelerated from Private to Captain. He received the WWII Victory Medal, American Defense Service Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

On December 23, 1941, Howard was united in marriage to Irene Elizabeth Wasson. Their marriage was blessed with one daughter, Patricia Dawn.

In 1945, Howard began working for the Baldwin Co-op, and later bought his own milk route working that route until 1949. During the 1940s, Howard worked for the county as a Deputy Sheriff and started a career with the First National Bank of Baldwin. Howard was active in the community, serving 14 years on the school board, a member of the Baldwin Boosters Club, Boy Scout leader, member of the American Legion, Masonic Lodge, as well as serving on the Pierce County and Spring Valley Village Boards. Howard was also proud to be one of three originators of the St. Croix Valley Riders Saddle Club. Howard was part of a 21 horse drill team, as well as square dance group that participated at the State Fair for many years, sharing those experiences with his daughter Pat. His love for horses remained throughout his life.

Howard became cashier and CEO of the Bank of Spring Valley in January of 1964. In January of 1973, Howard accepted an offer and rejoined the First National Bank of Baldwin, serving as their 1st Vice President, and manager of the Agricultural Department. Howard was a banker for 37 years, retiring on December 1, 1986.

During retirement, Howard and Irene were fortunate to spend their winters in Mesa, Arizona- enjoying the sunshine and companionship of dear friends. Howard was a loving husband to Irene, until her death in 1998. Three years later, Howard was united in marriage to longtime Arizona friend, Inez Jones-Stanley. They shared many years of happiness together.

Howard was a devoted to his faith, family, community, and his church. He was compassionate in believing that his church was the cornerstone of the community, providing children a strong foundation, as he believed that the children are the next generation. Howard was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He had a great sense of humor, always enjoying a good laugh. He had a gracious heart, always going out of his way to help others. Howard enjoyed Sunday afternoon car rides with his grandchildren, creating many special memories.

Howard will remain in the hearts of his wife, Inez; daughter, Pat (Fred) Klenke of Hager City; grandchildren, Troy (Melissa) Klenke and Toinette (Jeff) Adrian; great-granddaughters, Mickenzie and Abigail; step-children, George Stanley and Beverly (James) LaChance, both of Albany, NY. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Irene; brother, Donald; and his parents.

Funeral services for Howard Murphy will take place 11:00a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2015 at First Baptist Church, 581 Old County Hwy B, Woodville, with Pastors Dennis Tapp and Walter Olsen officiating. Visitation will take place 4:00-8:00p.m. on Friday, August 28th at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 1010 Newton St., Baldwin, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. A horse drawn carriage procession will follow to the Baldwin Cemetery where Howard will be laid to rest. Military honors will be provided by the Baldwin American Legion. Pallbearers assisting with the services will be: John Mentink, Jim Mentink, Leslie Dahm, Robert Kingsman, Bob Wahlquist, and Bill Wahlquist. Michael Murphy will serve as an honorary pallbearer. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the First Baptist Church, Educational Building in Howard’s memory. Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Baldwin WI. 715-684-3434

Memory

Send a note or share a memory
See all memories → There are no tributes yet, please leave a tribute below.

Share Obituary

Let others know about your loved one’s death

Facebook

Get Updates

Sign up for obituary notices to come right to your inbox →

Send a Note or Share a Memory

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *