Obituary of Shawn Robert Murphy

MURPHY, Shawn Robert

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, cousin, friend, and devoted tradesman, Shawn Robert Murphy (affectionately known as "Murph"). Shawn passed peacefully, surrounded by love, after receiving extraordinary care in the Intensive Care Unit at Guelph General Hospital.

Shawn leaves behind his cherished wife and best friend of 36 years, Janice May-Murphy, whom he married on May 2, 1997—a date forever special as it marked both Shawn’s birthday and the anniversary of their lifelong bond. On that special day, Shawn felt he received the greatest birthday gift possible—a new family with Janice and her two children. Their marriage, built on unwavering love and deep friendship, endures beyond this temporary parting.

A proud and devoted father, Shawn will be deeply missed by his children, Ryan May (Julie) and Nicole Heidlinger (Adam). He was the adored grandfather of Mackenzie and Madison May. Shawn was predeceased by his loving parents, Phylis and Roy Murphy, and his uncle Cornelius "Buddy" Murphy. Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Shawn always remained proud of his roots.

He is lovingly remembered by his mother-in-law, Margaret Fleming (the late Frank Fleming); his brothers-in-law Kenneth Fleming and Frank Fleming (Brenda); his dear Aunt Anne Smith (the late Ted Smith); cousins Blaine and Sitka; the extended Smith family; his extended family in Scotland; his lifelong friend and best man, Rob Anderson (Andrea); and his beloved pet, Sir Clyde Murphy.

For over 30 years, Shawn was an accomplished millwright at Accuflex Industrial Hose, where his unparalleled dedication to his craft, exceptional work ethic, and genuine camaraderie left an enduring mark on all his coworkers. Shawn was not only deeply respected for his professional expertise but genuinely loved by his colleagues, reflecting the extraordinary person he was both on and off the job.

On behalf of Shawn's family, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. O. Akman, Dr. M. Gibson, Dr. M. Hansen, and the entire staff at the Intensive Care Unit at Guelph General Hospital. Your compassionate care, exceptional dedication, and unwavering support throughout Shawn's health journey have profoundly touched our family and provided immense comfort during the most challenging times.

Shawn's generosity of spirit, kindness, and warmth touched countless lives, and his absence will be profoundly felt by everyone fortunate enough to have known him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep friendships that will continue to inspire us all. In true Shawn fashion, we will carry forward his simple yet powerful motto, 'No Sweat,' remembering to focus on what matters, to push forward, and get things done with strength, optimism, and a spirit of perseverance.

Service details: A funeral service will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday, April 9th at Brombal Funeral Home, 1 Delhi St, Guelph, ON N1E 4J3. For those who wish to view the service remotely, a livestream link is available here. A celebration of Shawn's life for friends and family will follow at Raging Bull Banquet Hall, 84 Lewis Road, Guelph, Ontario, N1H 1G1.

In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Intensive Care Unit at Guelph General Hospital. Memories and condolences can be shared online at brombal.ca.