Murdock Power

Joseph Murdock Power

Mill Creek

We are heartbroken to announce the peaceful passing of an extraordinary man, Joseph Murdock Power, 86, on April 9, 2023. 

Born in Alder Point, he was the son of Peter and Sarah (Dugas) Power. He grew up in a large family, whose guidance served as his moral compass for his entire life. He learned to be independent, a man of principle who stood up for what he believed in, and someone who never felt the need to impress others. 

A very intelligent man, there wasn’t much he couldn’t accomplish, and his hands were never idle. In his early years, Murdock served in the Canadian Armed Forces, worked as an oil burner mechanic, and had a 20-year career at the Municipal Ready Mix. In 1986, he had the courage to pursue his dream of becoming a boat builder. Countless hours over 4 years, were spent with his son, David, mastering his craft, and building two beautiful Cape Island-style fishing boats, complete with his own signature design that separated them from the rest. Together, they shared a special bond and fished lobster and crab until his retirement. 

Murdock enjoyed cross-country skiing, hunting, a good jig, a cup of tea, lots of cookies, being close to the sea, a worn pair of jeans, a soft plaid shirt (or two), and especially time spent with family and friends. 

Murdock will be forever missed by his loving wife of 65 years, Gerrie (Campbell). The saying, “opposites attract,” could not be more true. He considered himself the luckiest man to have found his beautiful girl from the Lane, but she would say that she was really the lucky one. He truly loved the home they made together and the memories they shared.

He was so proud of his children David (Phonda), daughters Edwina (Howie) Gardiner and Shawna Lee (Shaun) Campbell; grandchildren Kirk (Tracey) Power, Shalane (Steve) Clarke, and Nate Campbell; great-grandchildren Lucah, Layla, Thea, and Dominic. Our father, known as “Mur” to his grandchildren, always put his family first and did whatever he could to give us comfort and security. He was there for us at the start of our lives, and he protected us until the very last breath of his. He was the perfect role model, teaching us the importance of listening and learning. We admired him more than words can say, and we were honoured to call him Da.

Also left to mourn are his sisters, Delvina and Jane, as well as nieces, nephews and sisters and brothers-in-law who meant the world to him.

 Besides his parents, Murdock was predeceased by his siblings Joe, Jimmy, Wensley, Donnie, Charlie, Peter, June, Helen, Robena, Rhoda and Katherine. 

There will be no visitation. A funeral Mass to celebrate Murdock’s life will be held on Saturday, April 15, at 10:30 in Saint Joseph’s Church, Bras d’Or, with Fr. Chinonso officiating. With reception to follow in Bras d’Or hall.

Murdock was a quiet, gentle soul who never wanted to be the center of attention. He was a selfless man whose greatest joy was to make others happy, never expecting anything in return. An unsung hero in every sense of the word. His resilience, determination, and will to stay with us were truly remarkable. Toodledoo Da, we will love you forever.

“That man is a success-who leaves the world better than he found it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had”.