VICTOR Murray was born in Collie on June 8, 1926, to Emma Ida and Jim Murray and was well loved by the entire community.
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Vic, as he was known to most, attended school in Collie until the age of 14 when he left to become the local postman.
In 1944, at the age of 18, Vic enrolled in the Air Force where he spent two years before being discharged in 1946 when he returned to Collie to work in the Griffin Coal mine.
In later years, Vic became the president of the Collie Miners Union.
Vic was also one to enjoy his sport.
In 1948-49 he was selected to row for Western Australia in the Kings Cup, performing as an oarsman in the number two seat. Vic was also known for his football talent, representing the Collie combined side.
Enjoying time on the golf course was also special to Vic as he was among the team of volunteers who helped to make the Collie Golf Club a complete 18-hole course.
In 1950, Vic met the love of his life and married Oriel Scott.
The next year the couple welcomed their first child into the world, daughter Marilyn, who was followed by Shelley and Noelene.
In later years the girls would all be married, giving Vic three sons-in-law in Phil Uren, Bill Hayward and Brett Merrey.
A strong believer in helping the community, Vic joined the scouts at a young age where he went on to become King Scout.
Vic was also involved in many committees including the Collie Swimming Club (life member), Country Swimming Association (life member), Railways Football Club, Collie Football Club and Collie Golf Club.
Vic was the starter for the Amaroo Primary School and Collie Senior High School swimming and athletics carnivals for 35 years. In 1970 Vic welcomed his first grandchild into the world when Murray Uren was born.
Vic enjoyed time spent camping in the outdoors and in 1975 he and Oriel enjoyed their first international holiday.
Retiring in 1985, Vic began the hobbies of growing orchids and making tomato relish and sauce.
In later years Vic welcomed another four grandchildren.
The past five months were a challenge for Vic but he showed amazing strength to cope with his medical procedures before he died on April 28.
Vic will be missed by his family but the foundations he laid for them won't be forgotten.
Vic was proud to be an active member of the community.
