Robert Murray (Veteran)

Robert "Rob" Todd Murray, 40, of Jefferson City, passed away Saturday, February 5, 2011, at St. Mary's Health Center. He was born October 25, 1970 in Decatur, Illinois, the son of John and Marilyn (Anderson) Murray. Rob graduated from Jefferson City High School. He served in the United States Navy from 1988-1995 during the Persian Gulf War and aboard the USS Ranger CV-61as an electronics technician for the fighter jet F-14 Tomcat. Rob was employed much of his life as a car salesman. He worked at Capital City Chrysler, Mike Kehoe Ford, Reagan Honda and most recently Corwin Honda. Rob was very passionate about his work and loved meeting new people. Rob enjoyed life and lived every moment to its fullest. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed tennis, swimming, canoeing, rafting, and cliff diving. Rob was a collector which included swords, rocks and crystals, and had his collection displayed throughout his home. Rob enjoyed people and everyone that knew him liked him. He was a caring and giving person and often thought of others before himself. He had the most sparkling eyes and inviting smile. He had an outstanding sense of humor and loved practical jokes. He enjoyed hosting parties and his home was always open to friends and family. His presence brought joy to all those around him. He is survived by his mother: Marilyn Clark of Houston, Texas; his father and step-mother: John and Mindy Murray of Wardsville; two sons, Tim Murray of the home and Chris Ghess of Davenport, Iowa; one brother: Jason Murray of Wardsville; one sister: Ashley Murray of Columbia; soulmate and life partner: Marda Thompson of the home and her children: Torre Thompson of the home, Taylor Thompson of Columbia, Tara Dampf and husband Brad of Holts Summit; and step-grandparents: Bob and Ruth Wheeler of Holts Summit. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Emil and Bernice Anderson, and Bill and Mildred Murray. Friends will be received from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 8, 2011, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home with Rev. John Rollins officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow at the Hawthorn Memorial Gardens. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Robert Murray Children's Education Fund. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main, (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at millardfamilychapels.com.