Edward C. Murgia, Jr.

GILBERT – Edward C. (“Ed”) Murgia, Jr, 63, of Gilbert, AZ passed away peacefully on October 30th after a 5-week illness. He is preceded in death by his late parents, Catherine (“Katy”) & Edward, Sr. (“Ed”) Murgia.

He was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend to many. Ed is survived by his sisters Doreen M. Murgia of Laguna Woods, CA; Catherine A. Melanson of Aliso Viejo, CA; Donna M., and her husband Everett Ricketts of Phoenix, AZ; Ed also is survived by eight nephews & nieces and two God children.

Ed was born in Albany, NY and later moved to Cypress, CA before moving to Arizona in 1985. He was a 1976 graduate of Colonie Central High school, in Albany, NY and attended Cypress Community College before graduating from the University of California –Irvine in 1982 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Ed had an illustrious career in the aerospace industry as a mechanical engineer working for Hughes Helicopters in Culver City, California before transferring to Mesa, AZ for McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Company, and eventually The Boeing Company. During his 36 years of service, Ed was instrumental in the design and development of key aero-thermal systems for the AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopter as well as the MD900 Explorer and MD600 NOTAR helicopters. Ed’s expertise in performance analysis of propulsion systems and flight test activities led to FAA certification for these product lines. Ed also received a U.S. Patent on his work. He retired from Boeing in June 2020.

Ed was both an athlete and sports enthusiast throughout his life. He was an accomplished martial artist in Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, and Aikido, and achieved the rank of 4th degree Black Belt in each of his arts. He was active in softball and bowling leagues throughout his adult life and coached youth sports as a volunteer.

Ed was generous with his time and talents over the years. His mechanical aptitude and carpentry skills were used to help friends and family with a multitude of home projects and remodels.

Visitation is scheduled for November 15, 2021 from 4:30pm – 7:00pm at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery & funeral Home, 1562 E. Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 1730 W. Guadalupe Rd, Mesa, AZ at 12 noon on November 16, 2021 followed by a procession to Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 1562 E. Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ for a grave site ceremony & farewell.