Obituary of Larry Stephen Murdoch

October 18, 1950 – January 20, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Stephen Murdoch, who died peacefully on January 20, 2025, at Parkwood Institute in London, Ontario. He was 74 years old.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl, his daughter Kelly and husband Alex, his son Stephen and fiancée Amy. He also leaves behind his brother Donald and wife Louise, his wife’s siblings, Pam, Joe (Michelle), and Jim Corbin, and several nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He is predeceased by his parents, William and Mildred Murdoch; his brothers, Robert and Jim; and his longtime friend and fishing buddy, Ron Turner.

Larry’s love story with Cheryl spanned an incredible 57 years. Through all of life’s ups and downs, they remained steadfast in their devotion, loving each other to his dying breath.

He also had a lifelong love of animals and never met a puppy or kitten he didn’t want to take home. Throughout his life, he cherished countless dogs and cats, each one holding a special place in his heart. His pets were more than just companions—they were family. He leaves behind his devoted dog, Sophie, who rarely left his side over the past seven years, and his beloved cat, Finn.

A retired police officer, Larry proudly served the Wallaceburg and Chatham-Kent communities for 31 years. Following his retirement, he lived a quiet and private life, but with his easy charm and legendary sense of humour, he made connections everywhere he went. He took time to chat with the cashier at the grocery store, trade stories with fellow pet parents at the dog park, and banter with the staff at the local Tim Horton’s drive-thru, where he was often greeted by name.

Larry had an unforgettable sarcastic wit and a great sense of humour—he found nothing funnier than a good fart joke and had a growing collection of funny T-shirts that he proudly wore to spark laughter wherever he went. Even in his final days, he made it his mission to keep Cheryl’s spirits up and the hospice nurses smiling.

He had a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life—good food (especially doughnuts, ice cream, candy, fish & chips, and Chinese food), great movies (Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, disaster flicks, crime stories and thrillers), and long drives along the waterfront. In his healthier years, he loved fishing, boating, and exploring nature.

Larry’s greatest fight was his nearly 18-year battle with cancer, and no one could have fought harder. His strength, determination, and stubborn will were truly inspiring to everyone who knew him.

Honouring Larry’s wishes, there was no funeral service. Immediate family gathered to say their private goodbyes at his cremation on January 22.

●Celebration of Life
Family, friends, and neighbours are welcome to join us for a Celebration of Life:
Saturday, April 5
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM

The Berkshire Club
500 Berkshire Drive
London ON N6J 3S1

 
In honour of Larry, we’re keeping this a casual and lighthearted event. Just come as you are, share some stories, and help us remember him with laughter and love. We’ll have coffee, tea, and some of his favourite snacks to share. If you have a funny T-shirt that Larry would have appreciated, we’d love for you to wear it!

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Palliative Care Unit of Parkwood Institute in London, Ontario, would be greatly appreciated in gratitude for their tireless work caring for terminally ill patients and their families.