Joan E. Murphy

MURPHY, JOAN ELIZABETH

Joan Murphy, age 87, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2008 surrounded by her family. Joan was born April 18, 1921 to the late Roy and Margaret Talbot. On November 13, 1941 she married Patrick C. Murphy and the two enjoyed 43 wonderful years together. Pat preceded her in death in 1985.

Joan had a love and a gift for gardening and cooking. She sewed, knitted, crocheted and quilted, both for her family and as a volunteer in her church. Both she and Pat were fantastic golfers and they enjoyed many hours together on the course. She did everything well and absolutely nothing half-way.

Joan's greatest passion was her family; enjoying time together at Waubee Lake, Moshauquit Lake and everywhere she called home. With her kindness and her faith, she made a difference in the lives of everyone she touched. Joan was a loving daughter, wife, mother and grandmother, but will be remembered first and foremost as a true lady; possessing a quite grace that was cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan is survived by her three children, Christine (Richard) Houfek, Timothy (Jodie) Murphy and Patrick “Butch” (Terry) Murphy. She is further survived by her grandchildren, Vic (Brenda) Houfek, Robyn (Mike) Koehler, Mary Jo (Bear) Schultz, Tim Houfek and Michael Murphy. Her great-grandchildren, Ryan, Patrick, Jennifer, Justin, Jessica, Patrick, Peter, Sam, Josie, Nora, Trisha and Nic will miss her very much. She also leaves behind her brothers, Leroy Talbot and Steve (Bette) Talbot and other family and friends. Preceding her in death were two brothers, Dr. Alan Talbot and Tom Talbot, her sisters, Margaret Fischer and Nora Strohm and her grandson, John Houfek.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 500 W. Marquette St., Appleton, Father Thomas J. Farrell officiating. Friends and family may call at the church from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m.

Joan's family would like to thank the angels at Affinity Hospice, particularly Kathy, Susan and Barb.

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 North Superior Street
Appleton, WI 54911
(920) 739-1231