Donald Murphy

Donald M. Murphy, 79, of Topeka, passed away Friday, July 13, 2012, at Midland Hospice House after a short but courageous battle with cancer. He was born September 26, 1932, in Topeka, the son of George and Gertrude Murphy.

Don graduated from Topeka High School in 1951, served in the Naval Reserves and went on to graduate from the Topeka Police Academy where he served with the City of Topeka Police Department for 28 years, retiring as a Captain in 1983. Don went on to work for an additional 25 years as an investigator for the Shawnee County (KS) District Attorney's Office, retiring from that position in 2007. Don was a member of the American Legion Capitol Post 1, where in recent years he enjoyed spending time visiting with friends. Don also enjoyed spending his mornings over coffee with friends at his favorite downtown café.

Don married Katherine E. McIlvain on February 14, 1981. She preceded him in death November 28, 2006. He was also preceded in death by his son, Michael Murphy, and his sister, Betty Lou Murphy Henley. Don leaves behind to cherish his memories five children, Melody Meloy (Craig), Kansas City, KS, Tina Murphy Lacerte, Kansas City, KS, Martin McIlvain, Mt. Airy, MD, Julie McIlvain Patterson Leprich (Adam), Topeka KS, Christopher McIlvain, Sr. (Jennifer), Austin, TX; 14 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday at Dove Cremation & Funeral Service. Inurnment will follow in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery. Friends and family will gather for remembrance following the committal service at the American Legion Capitol Post #1. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Capitol Post No. 1 of the American Legion, 3800 SE Michigan Ave., Topeka, KS 66609 or Midland Care Hospice Services, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.