Donald R. Murch

Donald R. Murch

Of Richford, New York

Donald R. Murch, 87, of Richford, New York, passed away on July 22, 2025, following a brief illness. Donald was born on January 20, 1938 in Iowa, and was a son of the late John and Ruth (Booher) Murch.

He is survived by his loving daughters Pamela Hines, Christine Miller (Dan Flynn), along with his beloved grandchildren, Vincent, Dillon, Brandon, Tyler, and Nicholas, his great grandchildren Blake, Blade, Valerie, Lucas, and Kyler, and his sister Gloria (Bill) Wheeler.

In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by his wife Grace L. Murch in 2022.

In 1956, Donald enlisted in the United States Coast Guard initially as an engineer but ultimately discovered that he enjoyed being a cook. After his honorable discharge in 1960, he reenlisted in 1965, this time in the United States Navy, where he completed two more additional years of service. Donald was always proud of his military service, holding his memories from the Coast Guard and the Navy closely.

After the military, Donald worked as a meat cutter at Loblaws and Great American in Cortland, Ithaca and Binghamton. After his retirement, he began working part time at the Racker Center in Cortland, a job he found much joy in.

Donald was a simple man, with a deep love for his family and his faith, holding the role of Deacon and teaching Sunday School at Christian Churches throughout the area. He enjoyed doing object lessons for the children during the church service, sharing the word of God using magic and puppets.

Friends and Family are invited to a period of visitation on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, NY from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A service celebrating his life will follow with Pastor Chris Corlett officiating. Donald will be laid to rest at Allentown Cemetery in Glen Aubrey, NY where military honors will be accorded. Memories and condolences can be shared in his online guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in loving memory of Donald R. Murch.