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Robert James McMurray

| March 3, 2021 1:00 AM

Our father, Robert James McMurray, passed away peacefully on Feb. 24, 2021. He was born on April 18, 1935, in Washington, to James and Eleanor McMurray, both of whom preceded him in death.

He lived and worked most of his life in the Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls area. He worked as a truck driver for local companies and also dabbled in construction. He was a senator in the Coeur d’Alene Jaycees for years and made many life-long friends.

He was known as “Cowboy Bob" to many of his friends because of his love for all things western. He lived his life by the cowboy code, participating in (and winning) many rodeos. He served as president of Panhandle Equine Rescue for years, as his love of horses ran deep.

He had many interests, including hunting, fishing, camping, antique car restoration, boxing and coaching, motorcycle and car racing, backcountry adventures and he loved to dance. He was trail-boss on many horseback rides, raising money for underprivileged youth in the community and was a mentor to many.

He married Barbara Jo Wilson of Hayden Lake, Idaho, and is survived by their son, Donald McMurray (Melissa Burke) of Rathdrum, and daughter, Debbi McMurray-Long (Jeff Primm) of Liberty Lake, Wash. He is survived by his two sisters, Gayle McMurray of Montana and Pat (and Chuck) Riecken of Oregon; along with his grandchildren, Correy (and Becca) Berilla-McMurray, Justin (and Ashley) McMurray, Danielle (and Greg) Sternberg and Robbie (and Paige) McMurray and several great-grandchildren, along with the Jewel Ann Carlson family of Idaho. He was so blessed to have numerous close friends whom he considered his extended family.

Thank you to all his caregivers, and to Garden Plaza and Hospice of North Idaho for their care and compassion during his journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in 2021. Please contact one of his children if you’d like to attend.