Obituary for John Peter Michael Murray Sr.

John Peter Michael Murray Sr., 91, of Kenton, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Blanchard Place in Kenton. He was born in Delphos, Ohio, on August 13, 1934, to the late Oliver and Alice (Hoffman) Murray. On August 28, 1960, he married Evelyn Crank, and they had five children: Rick (Dee) Murray, Lena (Jim) Evans, Kathy Murray, John Murray Jr., and Kenny (Lorene) Murray who all survive.

Also surviving are 7 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, three sisters, Betty Sherrick, Ruth Ann Barton, and Beverly Ulrich, one brother, Tim Murray, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Patrick, Jim, William, Dorothy, Margrette, Kathleen, Oliver, and Phillip Murray.

As the oldest son, John worked the family farm outside of Lafayette, Ohio, while playing high school football for Lafayette. He joined the U.S. Marines in 1953 and was deployed to Korea, where he served at the DMZ. Following his military discharge, John returned to Ohio and settled in Kenton, where he met Evelyn and raised their family. John retired from Rockwell International in Kenton after many years of service and also worked at Walton’s Elevator and the Basinger Chicken Farm.

An avid bowler, John participated in many leagues and famously rolled a perfect 300 game at Hillcrest Lanes. In the 1990s, he spearheaded the formation and opening of AMVETS Post 1994 in Kenton, where he served as commander for several terms. He was also an active member of the Kenton Eagles and Moose Lodge.

A celebration of life will be held from 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with a memorial service beginning at 3:00 P.M. at AMVETS Post 1994 in Kenton. Burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Kirby, Ohio, will be held at a later date.

The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial donations in John’s honor may be made to AMVETS Post 1994. Online condolences may be expressed at pricefh.net.