Merle Murrah, 72, Iowa City

Merle “Butch” F. Murrah, 72, of Iowa City, died peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 15 following a long illness. In honoring his wishes, there will be a celebration of life 1-4 p.m. Saturday, July 24, at Blackstone in Iowa City. Memorial contributions may be directed to Iowa City Hospice or Holden Cancer Center. Lensing Funeral Service is handling the arrangements.

Butch was born on Oct. 28, 1937 in Buffalo, Ill., the son of Cecil and Cora (Hartland) Murrah. He attended Alleman Catholic High School. From March of 1955 to October of 1958, Butch proudly served in the United States Navy. On April 18, 1959, Butch was united in marriage to Sandra Lievens. For over 20 years, Butch worked in the bindery division at Cedar Graphics in Hiawatha, retiring in 2001.

Butch was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was a proud grandfather and loved attending their activities.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy of Iowa City; a son, Jeff and special friend Diana Winter of Iowa City; three daughters, Sherry Murrah of Cedar Rapids, Lori (David) Hudson of West Liberty and Kim (Jay) Argotsinger of Columbia, Mo.; two brothers, Winn (Kate) Murrah of New Orleans, La. and John Murrah of Kearney, Ariz.; sister, Martha Rosser of Columbus, Ind. and grandchildren, Jake, Jared and Jace Vevera of Iowa City and Michelle and Cody Hudson of West Liberty. Merle was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and a nephew.

Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.lensingfuneral.com under obituaries.