Stephen Lee Murphy ’80


Stephen Lee Murphy ’80 died peacefully of brain cancer at home in Lenexa, Kansas, on April 10, 2012. Steve was the adoring father of Amelia and Thomas, an international consultant, environmental advocate, community volunteer and faithful friend to numerous people around the world. Steve was born in California and raised in western New York, where by 7 he learned to ski, a sport at which he excelled and that remained a passion throughout his life. At Dartmouth “Murph” fully embraced the Outing Club, serving as chairman of Cabin & Trail and forging many diverse friendships that sustained him throughout his life. Steve graduated with an A.B. in engineering and later earned master’s degrees from Princeton and Yale. Steve maintained his athleticism to the end. He could and would talk on a wide range of topics. Sociable and tolerant, he had a large contingent of friends in the United States and Europe who cherished his witty commentary. He filled conversations simultaneously with humor and sharp insight. Steve was optimistic and young at heart. He found moments of comic relief in even the direst situations, was expert at funny faces and had his own unique dance style. His enthusiasm was infectious. Tragically, Steve lost his wife, Carol, to cancer a year before he died. When cancer entered their lives, Steve wrote and spoke profoundly of his family’s journey through the experience and gave inspiration to many. Steve is remembered fondly and missed greatly by all who shared his life.