Roger Anthony Murphy
May 31, 1941 – August 21, 2023
Roger Anthony Murphy was born May 31st, 1941. He met his future wife and life partner, Naomi Ebbin, at Spring Valley High School in upstate New York. They married in September 1965 and he graduated from University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School in May 1966. In 1968 they drove west to California where Roger served in the Army for two years at the Presidio as Post Veterinarian.
Roger and Naomi lived in Aptos and San Jose before moving to and opening Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital in 1977, building the practice from the ground up. Any free time was spent exploring the mountains and dirt roads above town with his family or his dog, or clearing brush at their Ahwahnee home. Chainsaws, log splitters, and very large bonfires kept him whole.
Roger and Naomi sold the veterinary practice in 1997 and retired, enjoying RV life and traveling abroad. Roger loved Ireland and embraced all things related to his Irish heritage – food, beer, music, history, and people.
At the birth of their first grandchild in Seattle, Roger and Naomi relocated to Washington, settling outside of Bellingham in rural Whatcom County. Since there were no trees to cut down or brush to burn, Roger and Naomi helped grow fresh produce for the local food bank instead. He loved taking solo week-long camping trips free of social commitments and recommended dietary constraints. In the spring of 2022, Roger and Naomi moved to Bend, Oregon to spend time with their youngest grandchild and enjoy an easier way of life.
Roger passed away on August 21st, 2023 after a full and rich life. He was a hardworking and gentle husband, father, grandfather, and veterinarian. He loved – and is loved by – his family beyond measure. His smile, generosity, and silly sense of humor will be sorely missed. Thank you for everything.
He is survived by his wife Naomi, his sons Brian and Owen, his daughter-in-laws Michelle and Natalie, and his grandchildren Aidan, Aliya, and Olivia.
You can honor Roger by contributing to his favorite causes, including anything related to animals, wildlife, nature, and farm workers.
