Kenneth Wayne Murphy

Kenneth Wayne Murphy, age 77, entered into heaven February 11, 2025. Ken was born October 5, 1947 in Rifle, Colorado. He was the son of the late Dolly Rogers and James Sterling. Ken attended Grand Junction High School where he excelled in the sport of wrestling. He spent most of his career working in the construction industry and ultimately retired from Granite Construction as a Superintendent of an asphalt plant. Ken enjoyed anything that involved being outdoors and in the mountains. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing. Ken was a quiet man, for the most part. His family was always his main priority, and he worked hard to provide the best for them. His greatest joys were spending time with his grandchildren and teaching them about the outdoors. His oldest grandson, who he considered to be the son he never had, shared his love for fishing. He was also extremely proud to have two of his grandchildren carry on his love for wresting into the collegiate level. His granddaughter was his pride and joy. Their bond was special, and she brought love and laughter to his heart.

Ken is preceded in death by his mother Dolly Jackson, sister (Linda Miracle), brother (Gary Murphy), and daughter (Tammy Murphy).

 Ken is survived by his wife, JoAnn Murphy; daughters Brandy Murphy and Penny Murphy Harris (Brian Harris); grandchildren Kevin Holter (Kara Holter), Kendra Murphy Perez (Luis Perez), Peyton Harris, Murphy Harris; and great grand-children Mason, Malakai, Mateo, Rafael, Irenabella, and Mia; as well as his siblings Phylis Bolsinger, Glen Chamberlain, Chris Watson, Laura Ross, and Scott Haynes.

His life was surrounded and driven by the love and joy of his family. 

There will be a catholic mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary (790 26 ½ road in Grand Junction, Colorado 81506) held in his honor February 21, 2025 at 11am (mountain time) followed by a burial service at Orchard Mesa Cemetery. A celebration of life reception will follow his burial back at Immaculate Heart.