Dr. Robert O. Murray, 82, passed away on Feb. 22 at his home in Moab.
Murray was born July 7, 1936, in Maeser, Utah, to Lyle Glenn “Penny” and Marinda “Rin” Hall Murray.
Murray graduated from Uintah High School in Vernal. He was a student body president, played football, wrestled, ran track and participated in many other activities. He graduated from the University of Utah in 1959 and graduated from George Washington Medical School in 1963, where he received an award for outstanding student in anatomy.
Murray married Mary Ann Nikles on June 8, 1963, in Bath, Pennsylvania. They moved to Salt Lake City to finish his residency. While in Salt Lake City they had a son, Christopher Dale Murray, born on March 2, 1964. Murray joined the U.S. Air Force in 1964, where he served as a flight surgeon and was stationed in Amarillo, Texas, for two years.
Murray practiced in Craig, Colorado, for eight years before moving to Moab. During his medical practice he was known for delivering many, many babies. During his time in Moab he became known as one “M” of three “Ms” — they were Dr. Mayberry, Dr. Munsey and Dr. Murray.
Murray and Mary Ann were married for 55 years.
Murray is survived by his wife Mary Ann of Moab; son Christopher of Los Angeles, California; brother Bill Murray of Vernal; sisters Deanna (Kent) McCurdy, Saralyn (Rick) Rogers and Mary (Levi) Smuin, all from Vernal; Marinda (Mac) Ross of Moab; and many nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Meriel Petersen, Betty Ann Murray; brothers Joe Murray and David Murray, all of Vernal.
At Murray’s request, cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held on March 4 at 11 a.m. at the Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery with military rites.
Memorial donations can be made in his name to Moab Regional Hospital or to the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com.
