Declan Murphy

April 16, 1944 - June 18, 2021

Declan Murphy passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 18th, after a brief, hard-fought battle with cancer and Parkinson’s Disease. Declan was born April 16, 1944, in Limerick, Ireland to William and Barbara Murphy. After emigrating at age 15 to Burlingame with his parents, brothers Eugene and Damian, and sister Justine, he attended Serra High School, graduating in 1962. He then enlisted in the US Army, completing jump school at Fort Benning Georgia. After serving, he returned to San Mateo in 1965, joining the family business, Murphy and Hartelius, where he met his soon-to-be wife Emily when she was picking up her TWA uniform. Throughout the years Declan developed a passion for golf, fine food, and travel, mastering them all. His home-cooked meals, with Emily’s help, were legendary, as were the many trips to Europe with friends and family. Declan never lost his love for Ireland taking great pleasure in sharing his heritage and homeland, and most of all his Irish family. Despite becoming a US citizen, he remained an Irishman at heart. Declan was truly one of a kind- easy to love and hard to forget, which led to lifelong friendships throughout the world.

His generosity was unparalleled and if he could lend a hand or make a difference he would. His quick wit came in handy on the golf course and in life.

The family is so grateful for the love and support of friends and family, far and wide, especially in the last few months. Declan took great comfort in those visits, and the phone calls to Ireland with his cousins provided immense joy. Declan is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Emily, daughter Melissa Armanini, son-in-law Greg and his two grandchildren, Jack and Kate, who truly made his world complete. He is also survived by his two brothers and their families, nieces, nephews and many cousins in Ireland. A private service will be held. Please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or the Michael J. Fox Foundation in lieu of flowers.