In Memoriam: Dennis W. Murphy

1947-2013

by HPS staff

Dennis W. Murphy, PhD, was born in Lafayette, Indiana, on 22 January 1947 to Paul and Martha (Reynolds) Murphy. Due to complications from surgery, our fun-loving Irishman took the hand of his Lord on the morning of 14 February 2013, "Valentineâ??s Day," in Pleasanton, California.

All of Dr. Murphy's academic degrees were achieved at Purdue University, his beloved Purdue, to which he was totally devoted and supportive for his entire life. At the time of his passing, Dennis was employed at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, California. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Dennis knew how "game" he was for adventure. His response was usually "sounds good to me." Dennis loved people, sports teams, running, golf, traveling the world, wine, and ­being a true "foodie" at restaurants and dining. He will always be remembered for his generosity, his winning smile, and his zest for life!

Dennis was a plenary member of the Health Physics Society from 1975 until 2001. Many of us knew Dennis from his exploits at the Nevada Test Site in the 1980s and 1990s. He was a valued colleague and resourceful leader in the Environmental & Health Division of Reynolds Electrical and Engineering Company.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Anita Perry, at their home in Spokane, Washington; sisters, Sharron Parker and Jane (John) Holmes, and brother, Don (Deb) Murphy, all of Indiana; five stepchildren; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many much loved nieces, nephews, and cousins. There is a huge emptiness in our hearts for this unexpected loss. You are so missed desperado! We will see you "down the lane" McMurphy "Go Zags."

Donations can be made in the name of Dr. Dennis W. Murphy to the John Purdue Club, Purdue University, Dick and Sandy Dauch Alumni Center, 403 Wood St. West, Lafayette, IN 47907, or Purdue.edu/gifts and Gonzaga University Athletic Department, Spokane, Washington. A "Celebration of Life" is being planned for Dennis on 8 June 2013. For more information contact anitalperry@aol.com.