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Shannon Smith
Michael Frederick Murphy
May 12th, 1951 - 2020
May 12th, 1951 - 2020
Michael F. Murphy was born on May 12, 1951, in Detroit and died on December 23, 2020. Michael was raised in Detroit in the Warrendale community, and graduated from Cody High School. He worked his way through Wayne State University and University of Detroit Law School. He began his legal career at Wayne County Corporation Counsel, moved on to start a firm, and finally settled at the Michigan Attorney General's Office until he retired in 2019, after an exemplary career. Mike was a determined warrior, mentor, tough adversary, big heart, and dear friend. Michael is survived by his loving daughters Shannon (Frank) Smith, Melissa Ropac, and Kelly (Andrew Koffron) Carter. He was the proud grandfather of Brock Murphy Smith, Cameron Smith, Alexis Ropac, and Zachary Ropac. He is also survived by his brothers Patrick Murphy and Timothy Murphy, and his sister Mary Murphy. He was preceded in death by parents James and Helen Murphy. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lymphoma & Leukemia Society.
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Resting Place
St Hedwig Cemetery & Mausoleum
42.33888510000001, -83.2691758
Tributes
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Kelly Carter
Michael, or Mr. Sunshine as I so lovingly referred to you, I have been so blessed to have you in my life. I was only about 12 years old when that moustache entered our lives, and brought along “blood” and MTV and so much more. You took on two teen girls without blinking an eye. You were there… driving me to band practice, and rollerskating and more band practice. You knew I had it in me. If it weren’t for that barking voice “you should go to law school” I might not have. And after the bar, if it weren’t for that barking voice “you should apply at the AGs office” I don’t know that I would have. You were the guide on my path. And I’m so lucky to have been able to live in both your worlds. So lucky to be a part of your loving family, and also to be a colleague. I’m blessed with knowing what a beautiful soul you were, and what a smart and tough lawyer you were, and warm and generous colleague. I know for sure I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for you. So thank you, for your love, your guidance, your confidence and support, and most importantly, the fight you so determinedly fought for so long. I will miss you more than you could know. Love your Kelly.
Shannon Smith
My Dearest Dad, I will miss you terribly, and it breaks my heart that Brock and Cameron won't be lucky enough to create amazing memories with you, as I was able to do. In essence, given your battles, I was blessed with 30 years of borrowed time, since the doctors told you back then you weren't going to make it. Yet you fought on and proved them all wrong, over and over again. You weren't just the dad who came to all of my games growing up, you were the dad that came to every game, took detailed notes on my stats, posted a chart on the fridge, and helped me analyze ways to improve my number of rebounds, points, etc. week by week. You are so amazing, and I love you. Love, your Shan
Melissa Ropac
Oh Michael, where do I begin from helping to guide me through my teenage years to walking me down the aisle alongside my Dad and all through my life you are my Dad too! As Shan said you did fight every step of the way for so many years, through so many ups and downs to live your best life possible loving your family! You are one of a kind always there to help anyone and everyone whenever needed, you are a loving Dad and an amazing Papa! My kids Alexis and Zachary were fortunate enough to have you there growing up, sharing in life’s events and love you so much! We will miss you Papa so much, but always know how very much we love and adore you! Love, your daughter, your private nurse, your princess Melissa ❤️
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