Jean Carmen Murphy

Carmen graduated from Houghton high school in the class or 1971 and met the love of her life while attending Michigan Technological University the following fall. Married 52 years to Frank Murphy, they traveled and lived in Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East, before returning to the Copper Country to raise their family.

Carmen was the most amazing mother of three daughters. She was supportive and caring for all she met. Never complaining, giving of herself tirelessly. She has been described as a ‘world-wind’ on problem solving energy, jumping to action to assist anyway she could for anyone.

Professionally, Carmen worked as a co-owner and operator of several businesses in the Houghton area. Radio Shack in the 1980’s and 1990’s, Computer Mechanix in the 1990’s and 2000’s and the Carousel Winery in South Range in the 2010’s.

As a young girl Carmen had a well-earned reputation of caring and mischief, adopting and caring for stray dogs while hiding them in the house without parental permission. Her love for animals continued throughout her life caring for horses, snakes, guinea pigs, fish, parrots, hamsters, dogs, cats, you name it really. She loved being a home maker cooking and baking the best pies. She was devoted to her garden, joyfully planting beauty around the area. She was a quiet artist painting and carving with family and friends.

Carmen is desperately missed by her surviving family and friends notably: her spouse of 52 years Frank Murphy, and children Colleen, Heather, and Michelle. Siblings Sue, Kay, Dale, and Gary. Her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and sister-in-law.

In lieu of a funeral the family is requesting contributions to a memorial bench for peaceful contemplation of the vivacious life of Carmen. For further information regarding making a memorial contribution please email, piechockimiki@gmail.com. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memories and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com