August 13, 1947 – March 24, 2024  

Jim Murdoch passed away surrounded by his family on March 24, 2024, in Merritt, B.C., at the age of 76.

Jim will be forever loved and missed by his wife of 55 years Diane Murdoch, his children Brad Murdoch (Sonya) of Canmore, Alberta, and Michelle Douvia (Donovan) of Bellevue, Washington, his brother Norm Murdoch (Joanne) of Trail, B.C., and grandchildren Kiana, Laney, Brandon and Carter. His parents Les and Tommie Murdoch, brother Gord Murdoch, and brother-in-law Roger Watson, all of Trail, B.C., preceded him in death. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Marnie Ruggiero (Joe) and Linda Watson, his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and countless friends and relatives who all loved him very much.

Jim was born in Trail, B.C. on August 13, 1947. He grew up with his parents and brothers on Columbia Avenue, in a neighborhood full of fellow baby boomer children. He loved his sports. He grew up playing hockey and baseball, with great memories of his hockey teams that won provincial championships. In his teen years he found the game of golf, which became a life-long passion.

He graduated from J.Lloyd Crowe Secondary in Trail, and continued his education at the University of Victoria, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Diploma in Teacher Education, and a Master of Education. He married his high school sweetheart Diane in 1968, and they moved to Merritt, B.C. in 1972.

Jim was a loved and respected educator in the Nicola Valley – he worked as a teacher and principal in Merritt for 32 years, from 1972 to 2004. He cared deeply for the children and communities he served over the years at Nicola Canford Elementary, Collettville Elementary, Diamond Vale Elementary, Central Elementary, and SCIDES. He also enjoyed coaching many sports teams in the valley, primarily hockey and softball, and held fond memories of times shared with the players and families.

Jim was an avid golfer, enjoyed his curling, and played hockey almost into his 70s. He enjoyed cherished family time at Christina Lake, B.C. every summer, and delighted in traveling with Diane during retirement, including several winters in Oceanside, California, many trips to visit grandchildren in Canmore and Bellevue, and adventures in Europe, Hawaii, Eastern Canada and the United States.

Jim had the loudest laugh in the room. He loved spending time with family and friends, and heading out on the golf course. He was the best grandpa – forever a kid at heart, he loved to play and stir up action. He was also wise, patient, caring, and always supportive.

Jim and his family were incredibly grateful for the wonderful care he received throughout his illness. A huge thank you to Dr. Soderberg, his family doctor, as well as the Nicola Valley Hospital ER doctors and nurses, Merritt Home Health community nurses, and the oncologists, nurses and staff at BC Cancer, both in Kelowna and Vancouver. Also, our hearts are full of gratitude for the many neighbors and friends who checked in, brought meals, shoveled walks, offered rides, and provided support. Your kindness and generosity remind us of the best of human nature.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on April 16, 2024, at the Merritt Civic Centre, 1950 Mamette Ave., Merritt, B.C.

Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Terry Fox Foundation or a charity of choice.

You may offer a message of condolence at Merritt Funeral Chapel for the Murdoch family. 

• Date : 2024-03-24
• Location : Merritt