Winfield Murray

Skip, 79, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, craftsmanship, and an unwavering love for his family. Born on June 9, 1946, in Gorham, Maine, to Shirley Eleanor (Wentworth) Ward, he was adopted into the hearts of Lawrence H. and Elizabeth M. (Curran) Murray on May 11, 1947.

He attended Portland schools and proudly graduated from Windham High School in 1964. Immediately following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era. Upon returning home, he continued his education at NMVTI in 1966.

On June 24, 1967, he married the love of his life, Edna M. (Day) Murray. Their bond was the cornerstone of his life, and they remained devoted to one another until his passing.

He began his career at Potato Service Inc. as a boiler operator before moving to Windham, where he worked for Southworth Machine Shop and Dielectric. He eventually returned to Presque Isle to work as a boiler operator. Later, in Bangor, he served as the Facilities Director for James A. Taylor Hospital and worked with G.E. Turbines. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Murray's Lock Service in Bangor, a business he owned and operated with pride until passing the torch to his son, Kevin.

A master instructor for Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, he took great pride in certifying over 5,000 students in safety programs. He was a dedicated member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for over 25 years and held leadership roles in both the Pine Tree State Locksmith Association (Treasurer for 7 years) and the Maine State Locksmith Association (President for 4 years). He was also a proud lifetime member of the V.F.W. and the American Legion.

While his professional achievements were many, his true joy was his family. He often said his children and grandchildren were his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Proudly known as Gramp and Bumpa to all.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lawrence and Elizabeth Murray; his birth mother, Shirley Eleanor Ward; his "very special" uncle, Frank T. Murray; his brothers, Laurence J. Murray and Vincent L. Murray; and sister, Cheryl Gagnon.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Edna; his sons, Laurence J. Murray and his wife, Lisa and Kevin S. Murray and his wife, Heather; his grandchildren, Joshua and wife, Cassandra, Christopher, and Taylor; Great grandchildren, Julian and Adrian Murray; his siblings, Grace (Ward) Parsons and husband, Christopher, William "Bill" Ward; his brother in law, Dale Day and wife, Debbie; nephew Giovano Fusco, and niece, Kimberly.

Graveside service to be held in the spring.