Murray Grant Green

Murray Grant Green, 87, of Pocatello passed away Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Ridge Wind Assisted Living Facility, Pocatello.

Murray was born on May 26, 1924 in Pocatello, Idaho to Vivian Vilate McMurray and Samuel Green. One of seven children, Murray had a strong love for music, the outdoors and the satisfaction of a job well done. These traits followed him throughout his life, blessing the lives of others with his quiet sense of duty and sincere love of helping people.

Murray served in the Navy during World War II aboard the USS Little DD803 where he watched the American flag being raised on Mt. Suribachi in Iwo Jima, survived a kamikaze attack on his ship and received a Purple Heart for his service. After the war and serving a full-time mission in Vermont for the LDS Church, Murray met and married the love of his life, Mary Lucille Bird. Their marriage was solemnized in the St. George, Utah Temple. Murray and Mary Lou are the proud parents of six children.

Murray worked a variety of jobs throughout his life. He worked 27 years at the Pocatello Fire Department followed by working in maintenance at St. Anthony Hospital and at the Pocatello Regional Medical Center. Among his many side jobs, Murray was a member of the Bannock County Mounted Sheriff Posse winning many trophies in many events with his horses. He served a work mission on the LDS Stake farm. The ultimate handyman, there was no project Murray couldn't do.
Murray loved fishing, sports, horses and square dancing with his wife. Though quiet and reserved, Murray touched the lives of many with his kind heart and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Murray is survived by Mary Lucille Bird his wife of 61 years, his brother, Wilford Green (93), his six children Ann Green Harrild (Patrick Harrild), Maurine Green Oates (Gene Oates), Lynn Green, Doris Green Cogdill (Jerry Cogdill), Grant Green (Christine Green), and Tim Green (Terri Green), and his 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

On the day of his passing, his horoscope in the Idaho State Journal read, “You might have plans to take off, or you could submit to a momentary impulse. Put yourself in a position to explore different places and lifestyles. If you are flying solo, you will not be alone for long. Tonight: Visualize, then create.”
Happy travels, Murray. You are well loved and missed.

Murray's family wishes to extend a special thanks to the Creekside Encompass Hospice; and a special, loving thank you to all of the staff at the Ridge Wind Assisted Living Center.

Please take a moment to share your condolences, a short story, or any photos of Murray you wish to share with his family at this time.