Obituary for Philip J 'Phil' Murphy Star Tribune

Remembering Philip J. Murphy: A Legacy of Service and Dedication to his Community

Introduction

On July 6, 2024, the Madelia community lost one of its most beloved and devoted members. Philip J. Murphy, or “Phil” as he was affectionately known, passed away at the age of 84 after battling lymphoma. But those who knew him best remember him not for the illness that took him, but for his lifelong commitment to his hometown and the many lives he touched along the way.

Early Life and Career

Philip Murphy was born on January 12, 1940, on a family farm in Ceresco Township just outside of Madelia, Minnesota. He was the oldest of six children and grew up with a strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents. Phil attended Madelia High School where he participated in football, baseball, and basketball. After graduating in 1958, he attended St. John’s University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree and garnered a reputation for his humor and leadership skills.

After St. John’s, Phil went on to attend the University of Minnesota Law School where he earned his law degree in 1965. He passed the Minnesota bar exam on the same day the Minnesota Twins won the World Series in 1965, a day he always remembered fondly. After graduation, he joined the Cecil J. Manahan law office in Madelia and remained a “small town” lawyer for more than 50 years.

Service to Community

Phil loved his hometown of Madelia and dedicated much of his life to making it a better place. He served as City Attorney for many years and was elected District President of the Minnesota State Bar Association. He mentored numerous young attorneys and provided legal services to countless clients with dedication, integrity, and compassion. In addition to his legal work, he was an active member of the community and St. Mary’s parish. He helped start the Parish Endowment Fund and was still actively serving on the Calvary Cemetery Board at the time of his passing.

Phil was an active volunteer in Madelia, serving with the Lions Club, Watonwan County Historical Society, Farmers State Bank Board, and Madelia Strong. He was always willing to donate his time, whether it was for school and community fundraisers or volunteering as a Senior Driver for those in need.

Family and Legacy

Despite his busy life as a lawyer and community volunteer, Phil’s greatest joy was his family, whom he adored. He and his wife, Rosemary (Gage) Murphy, were married in 1963 and raised six children together. He was proud of putting all six children through college and loved visiting them on campus. He delighted in attending their various high school sporting and band events, including away games. He also adored his seven grandchildren with whom he loved spending time.

Philip and Rosemary enjoyed traveling together and took many trips to Europe and Latin America. Philip was also an avid sports fan and enjoyed following professional Minnesota sports teams, the St. John’s Johnnies, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and any small-town Minnesota team that made it to the State High School Basketball Tournament. Phil loved keeping up with current events and read several newspapers every day.

Conclusion

Philip J. Murphy will always be remembered as a pillar of the Madelia community. His dedication to his hometown, his legal work, and his family are a testament to his character and his legacy. He was a man who embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and service. The Madelia community is a better place for having had Phil Murphy in its midst and his memory will continue to be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Originally Post From https://m.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/0000492981/?fullname=philip-j-phil-murphy&clmob=y&c=n

Obituary for Philip J ‘Phil’ Murphy Star Tribune