Robert Steven Murphy: ‘A very kind and loving man’

This section includes announcements of important events in our lives–births, graduations, engagements, marriages, and deaths. If you want to share an event with your community, please send a photo and a written piece to [email protected].

Robert Steven Murphy

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Steven Murphy on September 27, 2025, at the age of 66. Robert was born on December 11, 1958, at Oakland Hospital in Oakland, California. Robert and his older sister, Pamela, grew up in Leonia, New Jersey with their parents, Robert F. Murphy and Yolanda Bukowska Murphy, both Cultural Anthropology Professors at Columbia University.

From a young age, Robert demonstrated a passion for all things mechanical. Known for taking things apart and reassembling them better than before, his curiosity and inventive spirit shone brightly.

He attended Anna C. Scott Elementary School, Leonia Alternative School, and Leonia High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and laid the foundation for a life rich in knowledge and discovery.

Throughout his life, Robert pursued a diverse array of interests and education. His academic achievements include:

⁃ Bachelor of Science from Montclair State College

⁃ Associate in Science in Surgical Technology from Skyline College

⁃ Associate in Science in Medical Radiography from Loma Linda University

⁃ Certificate of Completion in Diagnostic Technologist in Fluoroscopy

⁃ Certificate in Nursing Assistant from Rogue Community College

⁃ City College of San Francisco: Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificate in Airframe Technology

⁃ Certificate of Graduation in Advanced Motorcycle Technology, Harley Davidson Early Model Programs, Factory Authorized Suzuki Training

Robert was passionate about many pursuits beyond his technical interests. He loved vocabulary, politics, music, cars, and had an appreciation for excellent stereo systems. He also loved flowers and butterflies, long walks and drives, finding peace in the beauty of nature. His curiosity and zest for learning touched everyone around him. He believed in social justice and felt a deep responsibility towards humanity. He was a lifelong motorcycle rider and tragically lost his life while riding his newest motorcycle. He was a believer in all the gear all the time and saved many lives by educating new riders.

Robert lived in many places including New Jersey, California, Oregon, Arizona, Tennessee, Florida and most recently, Alabama. He has friends in all those places and more.

Robert lived for several years in Humboldt County, where he was employed as an X-ray technician at Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital, Eureka, and Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Yolanda Murphy, his sister Pamela, and his cousin and mentor Bill Pelletier.

He is survived by:

His companion Alicia Renata;

His cousins: Michael Pelletier and his children David Pelletier, Jeannie Klovert, and Jim Pelletier, along with grandchildren Monroe and Ben Pelletier and Autumn Klovert;

Stephen Pelletier and his children Rob and Tim.

Marianne O’Malley and her children Jane Paradise, Melissa Wilson and Michael O’Malley, her grandchildren Seth, Theo, and Ian.

Bill and Leah Pelletier and their children Maren and Garrett,

Brian and Kyra Pelletier and their children Aiden and Alexandra.

Jeanne Murphy-Stone and Susan Murphy

Robert will always be deeply loved, missed, and fondly remembered by the Clarke family: Patricia, Clarence, Michael (Randy) Linda Camilli (Steve) Marilyn Clark (Rich) Lisa Pifferini (Robert) and Christy Orsini (Greg)

Alicia Renata lovingly held a Celebration of Life and Memorial Motorcycle Ride for Robert in Huntsville, Alabama, last October.

The Clarke family will hold a Celebration of Life for Robert this coming spring. If you would like to attend, please text Mike at 925-980-3160.

Robert’s legacy was one of curiosity, resilience, and passion. He was a very kind and loving man. He was loved by many, and will be fondly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.

We love you Robert!