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Donald G. Murray, 70

Donald G. Murray, 70, of Pocatello, Idaho, passed away June 16, 2017, after a long illness, with close family by his side. He was born in Rigby, Idaho, on Nov. 10, 1946, to Jack L. and Grace Browning Murray.

Don graduated from Highland High School in 1965 and shortly after attended ISU. He taught pottery classes there, and that is where he met Barbara Yaniga, whom he married and became the mother of his only child, Nicky. A few years later, they moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where Don called home for more than 15 years. After he moved back to Pocatello, he soon found his wife, Nancy, whom took care of him devoutly until his passing.

Don had a great sense of humor and brought laughter to many. He was a skilled chess player, made beautiful pottery and was an accomplished soft impressionistic abstract artist. His very large paintings can be found in homes and businesses all across Idaho. Anyone that knew Don was aware of his love of fishing, and he spent many summers camping with loved ones in places where the fish were known to bite. His father called him a “Great Fisherman” and they often bonded over fishing together until Jack’s passing nearly two years ago.

He leaves behind his wife, Nancy; his daughter, Nicky Laufenberg (Murray-Yaniga); three beautiful grandchildren, Abbey, Lilah and Henry; his sister, Carol Peck, and brother-in-law Bud Peck of California; a niece, four nephews and countless cousins; and also Edmond Morrison, who was like a son to Don.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Don requested that no funeral service be held. The family will be holding a gathering in his honor at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 550 W. Cedar St., Pocatello. Everyone is welcome to come share pictures and stories about Don.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cornelison Funeral Home, 431 N. 15th Ave., Pocatello. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.cornelisonfh.com.