Desmond Francis Murphy
1938-2017

Desmond Francis Murphy passed peacefully from this life Wednesday 10th May, 2017, in his 80th year, surrounded by his loving family. Desmond is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Ann O’Looney, his three devoted children, Petrouschka (Bjorn) in Norway, Fidel (Chantal) in Vancouver and Giselle (Kevin) in Montreal, and by his beloved grandchildren Hanna, Fergus, Ewan-Patrick, Charlotte, Fiona, Vanaver, Lela and Quinn; also by his dear sister Sheila Nabigon-Howlett, his nephew Clem Nabigon and niece Alana Nabigon-Froese.
Desmond was born in Dublin, Ireland March 7th 1938, and immigrated to Canada in 1967. He worked in finance in Switzerland in the 1960’s and later in the airline business, first in Ireland, then in Calgary, Portage LaPrairie, New York and Montreal. A graduate of Oxford University England and the College of Europe in Brussels, Desmond had an encyclopedic grasp of the beautiful world he lived in, as well as a keen appreciation of social and political affairs. His great love of the arts found its depth in a passion for, and great understanding of the deep spirituality to be found in classical music; his vinyl and C.D. collection was matched only by his book library and collection of rare maps of Ireland. Desmond spoke many languages, both from study and travel – living in post-colonial North Africa he learned Russian from his landlady and perfected his French at work.
Desmond was a joyful and spirited man who loved life and lived it to the fullest. He and Ann travelled extensively in Europe, North America, South Africa and Australia. He loved nothing more than good company, great music and good food. He will be remembered by all for his gracious hospitality, keen wit and great sense of humour. Rest in Peace, Desmond Francis Murphy.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 15th, 2017 at 4pm at the
Mount Royal Funeral Complex
1297 Chemin de la Foret,
Outremont, Quebec
H2V 2P9 (514) 279-6540
(www.mountroyalcem.com)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cedar Cancer Foundation.
A very special thank you to the medical staff at the palliative care unit at the Glen Hospital.