July 6, 1931 - May 6, 2016

Montana rancher and cowboy poet, Chuck Murphy, peacefully reached his final destination early in the morning of May 6, 2016, with family by his side.

Born in Sheridan, Wyo., he is preceded in death by his father Carl Otis "Pat" Murphy, mother Josephine Kerns Murphy, brother Jimmy and sister Joann.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 64 years, Margaret; his children Rosina (Tom) Kastelitz, Pat (LeeAnne) Murphy, Mike Murphy; 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

The Bull Mountains were home to Chuck and Margaret where they ranched for 40 years.

Chuck's greatest enjoyment was working with the youth of Musselshell County as a 4-H leader, volunteer parent and mentor.

After selling the ranch, Chuck and Margaret moved to Red Lodge where he authored two poetry books and one novel.

He was an active volunteer for the Carbon County Arts Guild, the Kiwanis Club, the United Blood Bank, the Boys and Girls Club and a member of Calvary Episcopal Church. As a result of his call to serve others, he was recognized for his volunteer work at the Carbon County Nursing Home where he assisted residents and held weekly Cowboy Worship services.

A celebration of his life will be at 4 p.m., May 13, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Red Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made by making a difference in our communities through gifts of service and simple acts of kindness.

Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

Billings Gazette - May 8, 2016.