J. MURRAY CORMACK

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J. MURRAY CORMACK

November 14, 1934 – July 31, 2023

Our family is sad to announce the passing of our wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Murray passed peacefully on July 31, in Winnipeg.

Murray is predeceased by his parents, John and Jesse Cormack; and his son, Neil Cormack.

Left to mourn is Murray’s wife of 60 years, Catherine; sons, Ron, Ken, Dave (Darcy); and grandkids, Jeromy (Erin), Ashley (Janelle) and Jesse; as well as great-grandkids, Georgia, Cormack, RaeLynn, and Lenyx; his loving sister Shirley; as well as many extended family and friends.

Murray was born and raised on the farm in Rossburn, Manitoba. Upon graduation from high school, Murray moved to Winnipeg where he received his BSA from the University of Manitoba in 1957. Murray then moved to the United States where he earned and MSc from the University of Nebraska and his PhD from Iowa State University.

While in the United States, Murray and Catherine married and started their family.

In 1963, Murray and Catherine returned to Winnipeg and Murray joined the Department of Agriculture, first as Assistant Deputy Minister, and then Deputy Minister. In 1973, Murray moved to Manitoba Pool Elevators and held the roles of Assistant General Manager and later CEO. In 1988 Murray was recruited by Agro Company of Canada, a division of Con Agra Foods to serve as CEO in Montreal.

In 1995 Murray and Catherine moved back to Winnipeg, where he became the Director of the Grain Marketing Panel. In 1997, he was asked to become the Deputy Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism for the province. Murray enjoyed so many friendships with colleagues along the way, attending lunches for Manitoba Pool Elevators, to university reunions. Throughout his career, Murray was a dedicated supporter of Manitoba farmers and in 2009, was inducted into the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame.

Dad had many passions and was a sports enthusiast. He was an avid curler from the earliest years of his childhood, playing well into his 85th year. Over the years Mom and Dad enjoyed the many friendships that came from the sport. Dad was also an avid golfer. Though not picking up the game until his 20s and really enjoying it until his 40s, golf became Dad’s passion. Though unable to break the elusive score of 80. Dad’s greatest sporting accomplishment came when his team won the Pro-Am at the Players Cup. Dad enjoyed watching baseball, basketball, the Bombers and Jets.

In 1970, Murray and Catherine purchased a cottage in the Whiteshell and spent every summer enjoying fishing, golfing, and berry picking. Dad loved to surround himself with family and friends. The annual Pie Party was a classic for many years. Mom and Dad are the perfect match, calm with a dry sense of humour and then there is Mom.

Dad the father was an absolute gem. I don’t know of any kids that look up to and admire their father the way his children always will. From sound advice to terrible jokes, or an ear after a tough day, Dad was always there for us. As busy as dad was professionally, he always had time to coach or watch our sports and be there for our most important moments. We will forever remember his sound advice, his wry smile, and the kindness he showed every person he met.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity that you are close to.

Friends and family are invited to sign the online book of condolences at ejcoutu.ca



E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS

204-253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 05, 2023