Michael Kevin "Mike" Murray, 68, passed away on July 31, 2025, in Parsippany New Jersey, after receiving hospice services. He lived in Sparta, New Jersey for a number of years.

Born on June 30, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri, Mike lived a life marked by determination, humor, and deep devotion to his family and career.

He initially intended to get a degree in Architecture as he had an amazing talent for drawing, but the demands of working full time to put himself through college as well as the demanding Studio schedule and his activities at Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity made him decide to pursue a different degree. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Kansas, laying the foundation for a remarkable professional journey.

Mike began his career selling copier machines out of the back of a VW Rabbit-a humble start that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and tireless work ethic. He soon joined a food brokerage firm where he quickly rose through the ranks to become their youngest-ever sales manager. His talent and drive led him to Lehn and Fink as a regional sales manager. As the company evolved through mergers into Reckitt Benckiser, Mike advanced to National Sales Manager and ultimately Vice President of Sales.

His leadership skills and strategic insight later took him to Topps (candy division) and Bulova, where he served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at both companies. Throughout his career, Mike traveled extensively for business-so extensively that he became a United Airlines Million Miler by the age of 50. He considered his best accomplishments to be his 3 wonderful sons.

Despite his demanding professional life, Mike was deeply committed to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Diane; sons Grant and his partner Aimee, Andrew, and Clayton and girlfriend Annie; mother Carol Murray; sister Cathy Lenihan and her husband Tim; brother Chris and his wife Trina; brother-in-law Alan Doty and his wife Teri; Uncle Buddy and his wife Pam; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Marvin.

Mike's personal life was rich with passions that brought him joy and fulfillment. A lifelong music lover with eclectic taste, he found solace in melodies from all genres. He was an avid gardener who took pride in nurturing beauty from the earth and had many people knock on the front door to compliment his flowers. A dedicated jogger and fitness enthusiast, he also enjoyed solving New York Times crossword puzzles and Sudoku challenges with equal parts intellect and persistence. He had a great sense of humor (very punny), loved comic strips and playing pranks, and had a great smile and laugh. He loved telling funny stories and could write a jingle, song, or poem about about any topic. He was amazingly quick with quips and everyone wanted him to be on their trivia team. He could answer Jeopardy questions but refused to try out for the show, and amazed family and friends by answering daily questions on his Jeopardy calendar, rarely being stumped.

Travel remained one of Mike's greatest joys-whether for work or pleasure. He explored the world through countless trips and cruises alongside loved ones. One of his most cherished traditions was hiking annually in Smugglers' Notch, Vermont-a place that held special meaning for him.

Mike gave generously of his time as an assistant Boy Scout leader and took great pride in attending countless athletic events for his three sons. His presence was constant-cheering from the sidelines or guiding with quiet strength.

Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in his early 50's, Mike faced it with unwavering courage. He never once complained about his condition but instead met it head-on with daily exercise routines and participation in drug trials-always hopeful that progress could be made not just for himself but for others battling the same illness.

Brilliant, funny, artistic, hard-working-a beloved father and devoted husband-Mike left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His positive attitude never wavered; even in adversity, he remained a source of strength and inspiration.

May Michael Kevin Murray's memory bring comfort to those who knew him-and may his legacy live on through the lives he touched so deeply. If you wish, donations to Michael J Fox The Parkinson's Foundation would be appreciated. A celebration of Mikes life will be held in the future.

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