A respected Sarnia lawyer died this week at the hospice he was instrumental in helping to establish.
Bob Murray passed away June 17 at St. Joseph's Hospice at the age of 83.
Born in Toronto, Mr. Murray was a graduate of St. Michael's College and the University of Toronto Law School. He moved to Sarnia to join the law firm McEachran and Associates, which ultimately became George Murray Shipley Bell.
Bob Murray served as chairman of the board for the hospice and was integral to the raising of millions of dollars to open and sustain the facility on Christina Street North. An obituary announcement said he also was known by many as a star of the “Lawyers Plays” where his acting and fundraising skills produced some fine theatre, camaraderie among colleagues and a boost for local charities. In his legal profession he was involved with Legal Aid Ontario, providing leadership, mentorship and access to justice in a fair and compassionate manner.
Bob Murray & Mike Bradley Jan. 2020 (Photo courtesy of Mike Bradley via Facebook)
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley said Mr. Murray "built a better Sarnia" and his passing is a deep loss for the community.
"He was a good man who loved life and people," said Bradley in a Facebook post. "He treated everyone fairly with dignity, believed deeply in law and justice for all in the legal system and contributed to countless charity and community causes."
A private family service will be held, followed by a larger Celebration of Life at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice would be appreciated by his family. Arrangements entrusted to the Smith Funeral Home 1576 London Line, Sarnia.