In Memoriam: Richard T. Murphy, FASLA, MLA ’80
GSD Alumni Council member Richard T. Murphy, FASLA, MLA ’80 died unexpectedly on July 4, 2019 at age 67.
He was born in St. Paul, MN on February 21, 1952 to Richard Tenner Murphy, Sr. and Helen Duffy Murphy. He received his high school degree from St. Thomas Academy, his BLA and MBA from the University of Minnesota and his MLA from Harvard University School of Design. He was a registered landscape architect for several years before entering his family’s business. At the time of his death, he was President and CEO of Murphy Warehouse Company.
In addition to serving on numerous professional and industry boards, he was a board member of Western National Life Insurance Company, Children’s MN Hospitals & Clinics, University of St. Thomas Family Business Center and MnDOT’s Transportation Policy & Economic Committee. Richard was extremely proud of his success in growing a small family business into what it is today. He took great pride in Murphy being recognized nationally for over 25 years of sustainability initiatives, from using native plants to solar power.
The joy in his life came from his children and granddaughter, traveling to remote parts of the world, attending music concerts with friends, walking around Lake Harriet, and teaching Professional Practice in the University of Michigan Landscape Architecture Department for over 25 years. He was a connoisseur and collector of rock and roll from the 60’s and 70’s. Each time the Rolling Stones went on tour, he was at one of their concerts. Even if it meant a trip out of state. Richard was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his children Alexandra (Robert), Tenner, Libby (Nils) and their daughter Frances, Madigan (Peter); former wife, Kay; siblings Laurie, Patrick (Dawn), Sharon, Maureen (Brian) Aro; and his niece and nephews.
Visitation is being held Thursday, July 11 from 4 – 7pm at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel, 5000 W. 50th St, Edina, 55436. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 12 at 10:00am at Wayzata Community Church, 125 Wayzata Blvd E., Wayzata 55391. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift in memory of Richard to the University of Michigan Foundation – Dept. of Landscape Architecture, PO Box 860266, Mpls, MN 55486-0266.