John M. Murphy

John Murphy died at home on June 20, 2020 surrounded by his care givers: Sean, Jeananne & Dan, Gerry, and Mike. Dad was kind, creative, resourceful, and adaptable. Dad was proud of his Butte up-bringing and had many colorful stories of neighborhood adventures. He described various jobs throughout his childhood with such ease that it all sounded fun; at some point in our adulthoods we realized that the stories reflected his role in supporting the family during meager times. As a young man he joined the Army Air Corp and was a crew chief with the gliders during WWII. He shared wonderful stories of India and Burma. Upon returning home Dad resumed his trade of meat cutting and his love of fishing. Dad had the great good fortune of meeting Margaret Mackin through friends and together they raised 6 children in Anaconda where they supported their children's interests and provided childhood adventures slightly less colorful than his own - Mom had some influence there. While his own children learned the most colorful stories of his childhood in their adulthoods, his 9 grandchildren loved being regaled with his exploits; he had the most delightful story telling manner. Dad endured the loss of Margaret in July of 1996 and it was a blessing that the Spirit of Columbia Gardens Carousel had organizing meetings in October of that same year. Dad poured his creativity and heart into the Carousel and was gifted with new friendships with fellow carvers and volunteers. The first horse he carved was Midnight Special on which he went for a ride. He also raised the funds from local businesses to sponsor Marcus Daly's horse Tammany. On one of those days he was carving horses at the storefront in the Mall, Dad encountered a young woman with a familiar last name, and, as was his pattern, he inquired if she knew someone from his youth only to find out that Darlene Antonich was her mother-in-law. Dad and Darlene rekindled their companionship, enjoying many outings with friends and various travels which included following the exploits of Darlene's grandson in the fun-loving company of her son and daughter-in-law. Among the greatest honors Dad experienced was being asked to officiate the weddings of 3 grandchildren. He took this honor deeply to heart and was very thoughtful in his remarks and preparation. Dad loved us unconditionally and we all felt it deeply. John was preceded in death by his wife Margaret, parents Thomas & Mary Murphy, his brothers Thomas and Jimmy, his sister Nellie and Darlene Antonich. John is survived by his children: Mike (Larriann), Paul (Kay), Mary Jo (John), Jeananne (Dan), Sean and Gerry. His grandchildren Danelle (Holly), Erin (Ben), Pat (Kaitlyn), Dina (Matthias), Sean Patrick, Meghan (Michael), Nathan (Liz), Eric (Lisa), Kathleen and Colin and eight great grandchildren. He is also survived by Steve, Marylynne and Stephen T Antonich. Due to Covid-19 the family will arrange services later this summer. Memorials may be made to Pintler Home Options / Hospice or The Spirit of Columbia Gardens Carousel or donor's choice.