Remembering Donald William Murray

Donald William Murray

July 14, 1934 – June 25, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Don Murray on Wednesday, June 25^th, at Georgian Bay Hospital, Midland, Ontario. Don passed away in his 91^st year with his loving daughter by his side. Beloved husband of Nora who pre-deceased him in December 2016 after 57 years of marriage, cherished father of Peter (Nora) and Susan, and dearest grandfather to Christopher and Michael.

Born in Guaico, Trinidad to Rev. Dr. George and Sadie Murray on July 14, 1934, Don spent his childhood in Tunapuna. At age 14, he moved independently to Canada to attend Mount Allison Academy in Sackville, New Brunswick, where he graduated with the Birks Gold Medal in recognition of his outstanding academic achievement and leadership. Don graduated from Mount Allison University with a BSc (Hons) in chemistry in 1954, and an MSc in 1955. Shortly after, Don moved to Fredericton, New Brunswick where he met his beloved Nora. In 1959, Don completed a PhD in physical chemistry at the University of New Brunswick and soon after Don and Nora married and moved to Sarnia, Ontario, where Don began his career in the research department at Imperial Oil.

In the mid-1970s, Don was seconded to Esso France’s research lab near Rouen, where he became fluent in French, learned to ski, traveled Europe, and developed a lasting love of French wine and cuisine. Inspired by the beauty of France, he began painting, a creative outlet he pursued for many years.

In 1990, Don built his dream home on the St. Clair River in Coruna, where he enjoyed gardening, entertaining, and boating. He retired from Imperial Oil in 1991 then served as Executive Director for both the Institute for Chemical Science and Technology and the Environmental Science and Technology Alliance Canada, collaborating with universities and industry partners nationwide. Additionally, Don volunteered with the “Adopt a Scientist” program supporting science in local schools.

Embracing their love of travel in retirement, Don and Nora explored North America, the Caribbean and Asia. Their adventures included ski trips, a special family trip to Trinidad, and return visits to France, where Don had a fondness for the Loire Valley and Provence.

When Nora was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Don became her devoted caregiver. In 2010, they moved to Midland, Ontario to be closer to their grandchildren. Over the next 15 years, Don embraced family life; enjoying outings and offering guidance to his grandchildren. Known for his fish chowder and blueberry jam, his cooking became a treasured part of family life. 

Besides his parents and wife, Don is pre-deceased by his siblings Jean Robinson (Charlottetown, PEI), Betty Coll (Fergus, ON), and Ian Murray (Baie Verte, NB).

Family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of Don’s life at Carson Funeral Home, J.H. Lynn Chapel, 290 First Street, Midland, Ontario (705-526-6551) on Saturday, July 12^th, 2025 (Visitation at 12 PM, Service at 1 PM, reception to follow). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.