Clifford L. Murphy Jr., 81 of Eatonville, WA died November 20, 2014 in Puyallup, WA. He was born to the late Clifford L. Sr. and Aline L. Murphy January 1, 1933 in Champaign, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Nancy (Jim) Griggs, and one son, Robert W. (Leslie) Murphy. He is survived by his wife Kerri Murphy of Eatonville, sister Ann (Kenny) Bloomquist of Northport, Michigan, his children William C. (Mary Jo) Murphy of Bloomington, IL, Rebecca Murphy (Patricia Hoagland) of Champaign, IL, Toniel (Greg) Thomas of Kent, WA, Chris (Julie) Murphy of Orting, WA, and Ashley Murphy (Mitch Overton) of Puyallup, WA. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Two of Cliff's lifelong passions were flying and woodworking. In Seattle, he pursued his love of aviation and set up a Cessna dealership, General Aviation, Inc. In the 1970's and "80s, Cliff was known to many as a voice over the radio serving as the "Eye in the Sky,GÇ¥ flying the KVI Skywatch throughout the Greater Seattle metropolitan area. He often used his prowess on the pool table to raise funds for various local charities. In 1972, he opened The Wood Box, a combination antique and woodworking shop. He offered antique restoration and custom-built pieces, which were often created from nothing more than a photo. He was an avid archer and enjoyed many outdoor activities, including hunting the grounds surrounding his beloved Mount Rainier. He was a longstanding member of the Carbon Canyon Model T Club. He was the proud owner of his 1926 Ford Model T, which he drove like a crazy mountain man, without solid brakes or proper reverence for the Rules of the Road. Cliff truly loved the town of Eatonville. He served a term as mayor of the town and participated in holiday parades, attended many of the local events and supported the town in every way. Most every morning he could be found at the local bakery enjoying the camaraderie and fellowship of friends and family over coffee. An Irish wake was held in his Eatonville home on Saturday, November 22. Many friends attended, memories were shared and stories were told. His family and friends were surrounded by laughter and love. A memorial service is planned for 10:00 on Saturday, November 29 at the Eatonville Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Eatonville Youth Connection.
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