Clair J.K. Murray

Clair J.K. Murray, 75, of Melrose died June 13, 2020, at his home. He was born November 16, 1944, to William and Olivia (Paulson) Murray in Black River Falls. Clair attended Pleasant Valley School and graduated from Melrose High School in 1962. He joined the Army National Guard in 1965 and retired a Chief warrant 5 (CW5) after 39 years. Clair was a civil employee at Ft. McCoy and retired as Chief of housing.

He was involved in many organizations including: charter member of the Jaycees, helped establish St. Kevin Catholic Church, Melrose village president for 10 years, past commander of the Neil S. Lewison Post 439 and the service officer for many years. He was the current president of the quad county turkey organization and a member of AMVETS.

Clair married Bonnie (Risberg) Murray on June 17, 1967, in Black River Falls. They had three children, Joseph Murray, Marla (Dave) Milde, and Michael Murray; five grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. He is further survived by his siblings, Margaret Meacham, John Murray, Louis (Debbie) Murray, Arylce (Rod Everson), Mary (Curt) Woods, and Jan (Jerry) Schmidt.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bernard. He will be missed by all that knew him.

A visitation for Clair will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, at St. Kevin Catholic Church, Melrose. For the visitation please observe social distancing.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be for immediate family only due to Covid-19 restrictions. Military honors will be rendered by the Neil S. Lewison American Legion Post 439 and the United States Army Funeral Honor Guard.

There will be a celebration of life at the Melrose American Legion Post 439 on Friday beginning at 1 p.m. All that are comfortable attending are welcome. 

Memorials may be directed to the Melrose Cemetery Association and/or the Melrose Swimming Pool. Online condolences may be offered to the Murray family at www.schanhoferfh.com.

The Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

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