John J. Murray

John Joseph Murray, the best husband, dad, grandpa, and great grandpa, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, January 8, 2023. John, 90, of South Bend, IN, was born on September 24, 1932 in Rochester, NY, the son of Clifford and Arline (McGloin) Murray. Following graduation from Canisius High School in Buffalo, NY, John proudly enlisted in the Marine Corps and honorably served from 1951 until 1954. In 1958, John earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Science of Physical Education from The University of Notre Dame. On October 20, 1959, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Linkner. John would later earn a Master’s Degree in Education from The University of Notre Dame. In 1965, John relocated his family to South Bend, IN, where he took a high school teaching job at LaSalle High School. He taught and coached at LaSalle High School until his retirement in 1994. After his retirement, John managed the Joyce Center Ice Rink at Notre Dame until the age of 79. John created lasting memories at the ice rink with his children and grandchildren. Family meant the world to John, as he could be found most weekends on the sidelines cheering on his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s sporting events. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Buffalo Bills fan. Above all, however, John's greatest joy truly was his family. 

John is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Carolyn; children, Shaun Joseph (Sue) Murray, Mary Bernadette (Stephen) Neeser, Paul William (Dori) Murray, and Maureen Ann (Matthew) Shechtman. He treasured his nine grandchildren and was even more blessed with his six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Eileen O’Neil and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Joan Hemingway. 

A visitation for John will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with a rosary to follow at the Palmer Funeral Home-Welsheimer Chapel, 17033 Cleveland Road, South Bend. On Saturday, January 14, 2023, there will be an hour of visitation from 11:00 a.m. until noon directly followed by a Mass of Christian Burial for John at Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 S R 933, South Bend, with Rev. Fr. Steve Lacroix officiating. A burial will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Center for Hospice Care in Mishawaka or Christ the King Catholic Church.

Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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