March 2, 2022
Pittsford, NY “Until we meet again”
Read life Story
Michael J. Murray (Mike) died peacefully in his Pittsford home on March 2, 2022 at the age of 87. He was born on January 9, 1935 in Brooklyn, NY and was the only child of Michael and Agnes Murray.
Mike grew up in Valley Stream, NY and graduated from Central High School in 1953. He was a standout baseball player, accomplished actor, and President of his High School Fraternity. (spoonerberries.com) He served in the Navy from 1953-1957 and graduated from Hofstra University with a BS in Economics in 1960.
He married Lil, the love of his life on January 23, 1960. They shared 62 years of marriage together and he would say years later “this was the best decision I ever made”.
Mike had a successful 32-year career at Eastman Kodak, where he retired VP and General Manager of Office Imaging-North America, shaping the strategy of the Copy Products Division. He then served as VP of Sales at Harris Communications and concluded his professional career at Smith Corona where he was Executive VP of Sales/Operations and was an elected member of their Board of Directors.
He was a man who was proud of his Irish heritage and loved his family…he was protective and loyal. He enjoyed his summer homes in the Adirondacks where he would spend time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Wonderful memories were created over the years that helped lay the foundation for the family to thrive and build the lifetime bond they currently share.
Mike sure could command an audience but he mostly enjoyed his deep one on one conversations. He was genuinely interested in what was going on in your life and when he recognized your accomplishments, it meant something special. A true Patriarch, he was so proud of his family. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lil and their three children: Allison Jordan, Debbie (John) Lavicka, Michael (Allie) Murray, ten grandchildren: Stephanie (Owen) MacDonald, Jennifer (Jordan) Blake, Taylor Reynolds, Mackenzie Jordan, Abbey Reynolds, Timmy Reynolds, Ryan Reynolds, Caitlin Murray, Kelsey Murray, Michael Murray III, three great grandchildren: Claire MacDonald, Asher MacDonald and Eloise Blake.
Mike’s memorial Mass will be celebrated March 9th at 11am at St. Joseph’s Church, 43 Gebhardt Road, Penfield, NY.
The service will be streamed at https://holyspirit-saintjoseph.org/online-ministries
In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike’s name can be made to St. Joseph’s Church.
Comments
13 responses to “Murray, Michael J.”
What a lovely tribute to a truly great man who will be dearly missed 🙂 And I agree, marrying Lil was indeed the best decision he ever made!
Rest In Peace Mr. Murray…….what a fantastic legacy and family you and your wife built together.
Michael Murray was the epitome of the word “gentleman”. We enjoyed many good times with he and Lil at our Garden Club parties. He was quick to lend a hand, share a story and truly was interested in everyone in the room. His sincerity and kindness will be dearly missed.
A wonderful life well lived. Love comes through in this beautiful tribute.
A life well lived. Love comes through in this beautiful tribute.
What a beautiful sentiment for a truly great person. I wanted to add what an amazing leader Mike was of Kodak Copy Products. We were an industry success story and it was all because of Mike and his natural ability to lead. My wife Sue often said I always said Mike was the driving force and had a unique ability to make you want do your very best for him.
Mike will always be one of my heroes business. His leadership style and effectiveness gave our Copy Products organization the direction and stability that made Kodak a real force to be reckoned with in the marketplace. He lead by example and gave so many of us a great foundation for our lives and careers. We miss you Mike.
I am so sorry for your loss. May your wonderful memories together help you through this very sad time. May G-d bless all of you. Fondly: Lynda
Rest in peace Mike. My life was made better having had you in it.
Mike and Lil are the true love story. I have know the Murry’s for years. I have always admired their love of each other and their family. I will miss having you bring your beautiful wife to her nail appointments. You will be missed. I know you will always be watching over your Lil.
Sorry for your loss. I know he was well loved. RIP.
Cherish the memories.
Rest in peace Mike. You were the “Father of Copy Products” and a true leader of us all.
One of two primary mentors in my life, the other being Jack Sauter, Michael Murray played a very significant role in my professional growth at Eastman Kodak as he did for others as well. I love Mike for all that he contributed to so many and he has been and continues to be in my fondest memories. Rest In Peace and thank you.