Donald "Murray" McArter

Donald Murray McArter passed away peacefully at Wingham and District Hospital on Sept. 23, 2022. He was in his 73rd year.

 

Murray was the beloved husband of Gayle for 50 years; the loving dad of Becky (Mike) Golley, Sarah (James) McLean and grandpa of Garrett (Kaitlyn), Morgan, Jake, and Ian.

 

Murray was the brother of Joan (Doug) Cloakey and Paul (Tracey) McArter. He will be missed by aunt Jean, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Don and Dorthea McArter, sister Cathryn (Doug) Snyder and mother-in-law Louise Gannett.

 

Murray was a large part of his community. He was a volunteer firefighter for 30 years, spending 21 of those years as fire chief. Murray was invested in his community and whichever task he took on he always put in 110 per cent. The Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre was a big part of Murray’s life as well, as he worked there for over 30 years. He also coached and helped to start many of the town league teams. 

 

He was also a true gardener, wintering his geraniums and dahlias so they could be planted again next year. He also had a special spot for tomato plants, which he would start inside and then plant outside in the spring. 

 

Murray loved camping and went on many family camping trips all over Ontario. He also loved to canoe and, in his younger years, found it a good way to relax and spend time with friends. He also liked to try to golf. He wasn’t a great player, but he enjoyed the social time spent with family and friends. 

 

Murray’s greatest love was for his family and his grandkids, from coaching, camping, watching their sports games to trips to the lake, Murray was always present and ready for anything. He taught his family how to work hard, have a good time, and to love unconditionally. Murray will be missed by all those with whom he spent time.

 

Friends and family were invited for a visitation on Monday, Sept. 26 at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre. A celebration of Murray’s life took place at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre on Tuesday, Sept. 27.
In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy, donations to Inspiring our Future Campaign (please make cheque payable to the Municipality of Huron East) or the Brussels Fire Department would be appreciated.

 

Cards of sympathy may be sent to Box 193, Brussels, Ontario, N0G 1H0. Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca.