Ellis Ray McMurdie

Ellis Ray McMurdie, 87, of Logan, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2010 at his home. Ray was born November 28, 1922 in Richmond, Utah to William Mills and Hannah Hansen McMurdie. He graduated from North Cache High School in 1941. He married his high school sweetheart, LaRee Gordon on April 8, 1942 in the Logan LDS Temple. After marriage, Ray ran his grandfather's farm. Ray was drafted to serve his country during World War II on February 9, 1945. He served in the Asiatic War as a member of the first occupational troops in Japan. He was honorably discharged on May10, 1946. After returning, Ray was employed by Crystal Furniture Company, learning the floor covering trade on the G.I. Bill. On June 1, 1954, Ray and Spencer Hancey opened R & S Floor Coverings. In 1976, Ray bought out Spencer making Ray and LaRee sole owners of R & S Floor Coverings. Ray helped decorate homes from Twin Falls to St. George. Ray retired on April 15, 1996 at the age of 73. During his years of work, Ray and LaRee traveled to 22 countries and many locations in the states. After retirement, Ray and LaRee spent twelve winters in Arizona. In the summer, Ray could always be found in his woodshop making folding tables, cradles, gliding horses and more. He was also well-known for making jerky and smoking salmon. This hobby earned him the nickname "Jerky Man". Ray loved hunting, fishing, and camping with his family; especially at Twin Lakes and Bear Lake. Ray was a member of the American Legion Post #7 and served as commander. He was also a cub master for the Logan 22nd ward. Ray is survived by his wife of 67 years, LaRee; and 5 daughters: Kaylene Bruce Draper, Sherry Fred Jardine, Marsha Steve Adams, LuAnne Ed Minnig, and Jean Don Thedell; 16 grandchildren; 35 great grandchildren; and 9 great-great grandchildren. Ray is preceded in death by his parents; his only son, William Randell McMurdie; his sisters: Juanita Dale Speed and Afton Grant Horsley; and his brother: Neil Eva McMurdie. He was also preceded in death by two great grandchildren: Trista Ferrier and Ryan Adams. The family would like to express our gratitude to Alpine Hospice and their workers: Shalise, Courtney, Jenny, Kiley, and Karen. We would also like the thank Hospice volunteers: Alex and Eric, and Dr. Steven Salisbury. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Alpine Hospice. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon Friday, January 15, 2010 at the Hillcrest 1st Ward Chapel, 875 North 1500 East, Logan. Viewings will be held on Thursday evening, January 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Nelson Funeral Home, 162 East 400 North, Logan and Friday morning at the church from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery with military honors provided by the American Legion. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com .