SOUTH NEW BERLIN – George Murray, 38, of South New Berlin, passed away peacefully at Chenango Memorial Hospital surrounded by family and friends on Aug. 4, 2009 after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
George was born on May 15, 1971 in Utica. He is the beloved son of John and Joyce Wagner of Marcy and George Murray Sr. of Utica. He is survived by his wife Kimberly Murray and son Trason Murray of South New Berlin. He is also survived by his parents and brothers Frank Murray of Utica, and Michael Matys of Sierra Vista, Ariz. He is survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family members.
George served in the United States Army in the 82nd Airborne Division where he was forward observer paratrooper. He attended college at Mohawk Valley Community College, SUNY Oneonta and The College of St. Rose where he earned his Master’s Degree as an Elementary Guidance Counselor. He worked as a Guidance Counselor for ONC BOCES as well as Oneonta CIty School district at the Riverside Elementary School.
George had a tremendous passion for helping others and was the most proud of his work as a Guidance Counselor. He enjoyed his time spent with family and friends whether it was watching the Yankees play baseball or eating out at his favorite restaurants.
Upon the request of George himself there will be no funeral services or burial. George chose to donate his body to science in the hopes that a cure might be found for ALS. He also donated his corneas for transplant in order to help another gain the gift of sight.
A celebration of life service will take place at his home on Aug. 15 at the Murray residence at 3 p.m.
Donations can be made in George’s name to Catskill Area Hospice