Rich Murphy, Former Waunakee Tribune Publisher, Passes Away at 93
WAUNAKEE, WI — Richard “Rich” Murphy, a beloved figure in the Waunakee community known for his contributions as a newspaper publisher and village official, passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 93.
Born in 1931, Rich married Donna Marie Lyneis on September 15, 1951. After graduating from Madison West High School in 1949, he served in the U.S. Army as a Corporal from 1951 to 1953, during which time he stationed in Germany and Texas. In 1950, he began a six-year printing apprenticeship at Madison Newspapers, achieving journeyman status in 1956.
Along with Donna, Rich purchased the Waunakee Tribune in 1968, where they published a weekly newspaper and ran a print shop until selling the business in 1981. Renowned for his writing skills, he infused his work with humor, sharing tales of his family life and experiences with Donna. Following the sale, he managed print shops in Middleton and Madison before establishing R.J.’s Printing in 1987, where he worked until his retirement in 1998.
Rich’s community involvement extended beyond publishing; he served on the Waunakee Village Board from 1994-2003 and held the position of Village President from 2001 to 2003. He was also active in the Waunakee Rotary, American Legion, and St. John’s Catholic Church.
He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Donna; five children; 15 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. Rich will be remembered fondly by family and friends, and a memorial service is scheduled for November 20, 2024, at St. John’s Catholic Church at 11 a.m. with burial to follow. The family invites all to a celebration of Rich’s life at Rex’s Innkeeper following the service. Memorial contributions are forthcoming, and memories can be shared in the guestbook at www.cressfuneralservice.com.
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Photo credit wnanews.com
