Obituary of Bernard John Murtaugh

Murtaugh, Bernard John, of Woodbury, NJ, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on October 30, 2007; Aged 83 years. A selfless man of strong faith, Bernie was a devoted father and projected a positive attitude in all that he did; earning him the honor of being ?patriarch? to a fine, close family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Bernie was a resident of the Woodbury area since 1949. Bernie proudly served his country in the US Army Air Corps during WWII as a nose turret gunner bombardier and earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. His courage, bravery and service earned him many commendations including the Air Medal with Four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Presidential Unit Citation with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the European Theatre of Operations Ribbon with five Battle stars, the Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross, of which Bernie was particularly proud. Remaining active with the 492nd Bomb Group HMG/MS from WWII, was a way Bernie kept in touch with fellow vets. After the war, Bernie spent time on Navy diesel subs and worked for JJ Henry Co., Naval Architects. After 27 years of dedicated service, Bernie retired as senior electrical designer with Campbell Soup. Serving as a boy scout and a girl scout leader, active with his children?s little league and acting as an usher at Church were things that brought joy and a sense of community to Bernie. Bernie?s relationship with his family was certainly paramount in his life; fond memories of riding rollercoasters, swimming, trips to the Jersey shore and jogging from Woodbury to Atlantic City a total of 54 miles with two high school cross country track members, are just a few memories left behind to treasure. Beloved husband of 61 years to Rae, nee Matkin; Devoted Father of Susan Hiles, Frances Murtaugh, Catherine Knoferl, Margaret Emmons, Rae Mary Thibodeau, Betsy, Therese and Katie Murtaugh and the late Bernard, Jr.; dear Brother of Raymond and Charles; Loving Grandfather of 18 and Great Grandfather of 3 and one on the way. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Fri. 6:30-9 PM at the McGuinness Funeral Home, 34 Hunter Street Woodbury, NJ. Funeral Liturgy 11:30 AM Sat. in Saint Mary The Virgin Chapel, 1520 S. Delaware St., Paulsboro. Interment Woodbury Memorial Park, West Deptford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan Hospice, 5 Eves Dr., Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053 or to St. John of God Community Services, 1145 S. Delsea Dr., Westville, NJ 08093. Tributes and memories may be shared by clicking on the guestbook ?The Lifetime Tribute Funeral Home?