Robert Ellsworth Murrison

Robert E. Murrison, 96, of Cedar Rapids, died peacefully Wednesday, November 2, 2011with his family at his side in Cottage Grove Place Health Center, Cedar Rapids. The family will hold a graveside funeral service on Friday, November 4, 2011 at 2:00 pm at the Tipton Masonic Cemetery, Tipton, Iowa. The Rev. Lloyd Brockmeyer will officiate. Those desiring to follow the procession to the cemetery are welcome to meet at Fry Funeral Home at 1:00 pm prior to the service. Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com. At his request, no reception will follow the service. Memorials may be sent to a charity of your choice in Robert's name. Son of Ernest W. and Bertha B. Babcock Bacon Murrison, Robert was born on April 5, 1915 in Wilton Jct, Iowa. He attended Cedar County Country Schools and graduated from the Tipton High School with the Class of 1932. On May 14, 1935, Robert was united in marriage to Mary Lucile Moffit in Ottawa, Illinois. Robert was a licensed exterminator and owned and operated his own business for 37 years, Brookfield Pest Control, retiring in 1978. He was a charter member of the Iowa Pest Control Association and honorary lifetime member of the National Pest Control Association. Bob loved his family and friends, enjoyed traveling and playing golf. He was also a 50 year member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church of Cedar Rapids, IA. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 76 years, Mary Murrison, of Cedar Rapids; daughter, Trenna L. Happel of Coralville, Ia.; grandchildren, Douglas (Ann) Happel, Robert (Diane) Happel and Wendy Happel; great grandchildren, Molly McInroy, Kate McInroy and Emily Happel, niece Sally (Larry) Hanson, nephew Richard (Karen) Murrison, sister-in-law EvaLu (H0ward) Murrison, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, four siblings Mary, James, George and Howard Murrison, and nephew Ronald Murrison. Special note of appreciation is extended to the excellent staff and caregivers at Cottage Grove Place and Hospice Compassus for their devotion of care.