Murray Thurston

On Tuesday morning, July 24, 2018, peacefully and surrounded by love, Murray left us.

Murray was predeceased by his parents Roy and Jessie (Gray) Thurston, his parents-in-law Russell and Eleanor Scott, and his infant daughter Courtney Adrienne.

He is survived by his wife Allison. Together they raised their sons Jared (wife Chantale and son Kyle) and Todd (wife Kirstin Blight and their children Carter and Hallie). Also survived by his brother Ed (Lasha) and sisters Pat Stein (Doug) and Shirley Maniller, as well as many nieces & nephews, his son Daryn Young, and extended family members.

Murray was born and raised in Portage la Prairie, MB. In 1969 he joined the lineman training program with Manitoba Hydro. During his 36 year career he worked in many locations throughout Manitoba, ending his career as District Supervisor in Portage la Prairie. He made many good and loyal friends throughout his career. During these years he was involved in the operation of the family farm, first with his dad and brother and then with his own two boys.

Murray loved being outdoors. Farming, fishing, boating, camping, hunting, golfing and snowmobiling were a large part of his life, especially with his boys.

Until his illness last June, he and Allison spent winters in Texas, Florida, finally settling in Arizona where they made many good friends.

After retirement from Manitoba Hydro Murray golfed in the warm southern winters and fished in the Manitoba summers.  He fit a bit of farming in with his two sons and his brother.

Anyone who knew Murray understood his love of music.  His dad taught him at a young age to play the ukulele and he soon moved on to the guitar.  He loved entertaining, singing and playing his guitar.  He and Ed played music together for years and he taught his own sons to play.  Many great times around campfires, our kitchen table, and later during our travels.  A crowd always gathered when the guitar came out.

His two sons were his greatest joy and he was so proud of them.  He loved family times at home with the kids and especially his three grandchildren who he adored.

Murray was a true and loyal friend to those close to him. He was hard-working, unpretentious and valued the simple things in life. He worked hard and played hard.  Life was for living to the fullest.

Murray faced his illness with courage and determination and never complained.  When asked how he was doing, even in his final days, he always answered 'I'm fine'.

The family would like to thank Dr. James Johnston, oncology at CancerCare Manitoba, the Bone Marrow Transplant team at CancerCare Manitoba and especially Dr. Jim Price, an amazing doctor and friend, for his kind and compassionate care of Murray during his illness.

YOU ARE OUR HERO WE WILL LOVE AND MISS YOU FOREVER.

Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at the William Glesby Center at 2:00pm.  A private family interment will be held at Hillside Cemetery.

If friends so desire, donations in Murray’s memory may be made to the Portage District Hospital Foundation, 524-5th Street SE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3A8 to fund new chemo therapy chairs.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com