Tom graduated from Colfax High School in Colfax, Washington in 1984. He went on to study at Boise State University where he obtained a degree in education, with a minor in kinesiology. In 1993, Tom married Gayle Gordon, with whom he had two sons, Theodore and Zachary Murphy.
Tom was an avid runner, hunter, sportsman, and animal lover. He enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with his sons, as well as hunting with his dad, brother, and brother-in-law. He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh. Tom was also an exceptional cook. He had a strong work ethic. Tom worked at Norco for 16 years and continued to be working up to the week before his passing.
Tom was a devoted father, son, brother, and uncle. His sons were the most important thing in his life. Tom was a Christian and his family was comforted before his passing when he informed them that he was ready to be with Jesus.
Tom is predeceased in death by his grandmother Okson Choe. He is survived by his children Theo and Zach Murphy, his parents, Harold Dean and Kyong Suk Buchwitz, his siblings and their spouses, Brent Buchwitz (Alex), Marla Steenson, and Kimi White (Travis), and his nieces and nephews: Abby Cron, McKenzie Steenson, Ethan White, and Isaac White.
Services will be held at Alden Waggoner Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
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