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Frank Alan
Murphy
Apr 24, 1948 — May 28, 2026
Frank Alan Murphy, 78, passed away on May 28, 2026, surrounded by family.
Frank was born on April 24, 1948, in Grand Forks, North Dakota. A proud patriot and dedicated serviceman, Frank devoted 35 years to the United States Army and Army Reserve, retiring with the distinguished rank of Command Sergeant Major. His love for his country and commitment to service remained a defining part of his life.
On March 13, 1970, Frank married the love of his life, Rhea Hoffman. Together they raised three daughters: Cindy Cogsdell of Grand Forks, North Dakota; Linda Bernier of Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Lynette Shorman of Lake Worth, Florida. Fatherhood was a role Frank embraced with pride and devotion.
Frank's greatest accomplishment was his family. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous joy. He believed deeply in hard work, education, and personal responsibility — lessons he passed on to generations of his family. Many will fondly remember him saying, "Learn two things every day."
In his free time, Frank enjoyed reading, cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, and, as those closest to him knew well, appreciating a little silence. Frank and Rhea spent their retirement years in Lake Worth, Florida, while often returning to Grand Forks whenever the weather was not too cold.
He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, his loving sister Rita Davenport and his brothers Mike Murphy and Dana Simenson, as well as his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends.
Frank was preceded in death by his Mother, Janice Simenson, his dear Brother, Bob Barth and his dear sister-in-law Janet Lundeen.
Frank will be remembered for his strength, discipline, and unwavering love for his family. He was the definition of integrity, and no one had a stronger moral compass. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in those who knew and loved him.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, July 10th, 2026, at 1:00 pm in the Norman Funeral Home in Grand Forks, ND.
Visitation will take place one hour before service time in the funeral home.
Burial will follow at Memorial Park North Cemetery in Grand Forks, ND.
Friday
Norman Funeral Home
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Friday
Norman Funeral Home
Starts at 1:00 pm
Visits: 1
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