Marilynn Ethel Murphy was born June 23, 1923, in Gibbon, Minnesota, the daughter of Albert Oscar and Ethel M. (Monson) Tester. She was baptized as an infant and confirmed into the Christian faith at Augustana Evangelical Lutheran Church. She grew up and attended school at Gibbon. She went on to attend the University of Minnesota and received her Bachelor of Science Degree. During World War II, Marilynn worked for the United States Army as a dental hygienist in Utah. After the war, she worked as a hygienist in Minneapolis. In November of 1949, Marilynn was united in marriage to Norbert Leo Murphy at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Minneapolis. They were blessed with five children. Norbert passed away in June of 1988. Together, Marilynn and Norbert were able to share in 38 years of marriage. After her marriage to Norbert, Marilynn moved to Murdock, where she spent her time taking care of the home and raising the children. She also kept the books for Murphy Construction Company. Among the things she enjoyed were raising flowers, surfing the internet, and especially being with her family. Marilynn was called from this life on Monday, July 27, 2009 at her home in Murdock. She attained the age of 86 years, 1 month and 4 days. Marilynn is survived by her children: Brian Murphy of Murdock, Mary (David) Gafkjen of Murdock, Trish Murphy (Jack Griffin) of Richmond, Rob Murphy (Kaye Sullivan) of Juneau, AK, and Katie Laughlin of Willmar; 13 grandchildren: Laura (Steve) Rosemeier, Neal Murphy, Joseph Murphy, Dan (Jeni) Gafkjen, Anna Gafkjen, Ted Griffin, Claire Griffin (Kris Klotz), Caitlin Griffin, Quinn Griffin, Jenny Laughlin, Emily Laughlin, and Kyle Laughlin; one great grandchild Noah Rosemeier, and other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her husband Norbert and a grandson Will Griffin.