Norman Wayne Murray was born October 23, 1957 in Friday Harbor, Washington and passed away from natural causes on July 16, 2025.  He was the son of Norman B. Murray and Agnes Murray. He grew up in the family home on Blair Avenue with his four sisters.

He lived most of his life on the island and his roots ran six generations deep. It was his favorite place to be.

Norman had a love for the sea and was an exceptional fisherman, a passion that seemed to begin before he was even born—family legend says his mother stepped on a fishing hook while pregnant with him. He knew all the good spots and times to catch the “big ones.” His love for the ocean extended into the kitchen, where he was known for his culinary skills, especially his signature dish, “Halibut Olympia.”

As a teenager, Norman developed a strong interest in music and took up drumming. He had a band in high school called Holy Smoke.” Later in life, his talent and energy led him to perform with a local band called “Rockfish,” which played at many local venues. He loved playing his drums.

Norman graduated from Friday Harbor High School in 1976. He moved to Seattle and went to trade school to become a plumber. Later he founded Murray Plumbing in his hometown of Friday Harbor.

Norman married Betsy Levison of Seattle, and together they had three daughters: Melissa, Beth, and Katie. Later in life, he married Lavon Williams and they had a daughter, Marissa. He was proud of his beautiful daughters and loved them very much.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughters Melissa Loft, Beth Flint, Katie Murray, and Marissa Murray; his five grandchildren Clara, Elliott, Jairus, Silas, and Levi; his sisters Jan Anderson, Sue Maas, Teri Cooter and Toni Murray; and by several nieces and nephews.

Those who really knew Norman will remember his kind heart and the love he gave to his family and friends. He was truly a loving soul whose legacy of perseverance, warmth, and strength will live on in the many lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at Valley Cemetery on San Juan Island on Sunday, August 3rd at 1 pm.