Robert Murphy Jr.

LEWISTON — Robert F. Murphy Jr. “Bob” or “Murph,” 57, of Bridgton, passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at Central Maine Medical Center after a long illness.

Bob was born in Bedford, Mass. but grew up on Black Point Road in Scarborough, where he attended Scarborough schools. After his time in the Air Force, Bob began a career cooking in restaurants.

He spent a year in Steamboat Springs, Colo., doing culinary work, then returned to Maine to work at John Martin's restaurants before becoming a Chef at Michael's Restaurant. It was here that he met his future wife to be, Cynthia Deering.

Bob found interest in real estate, and soon owned and operated camps at Tomhegan Wilderness Resort on Moosehead Lake, Crescent Lake Cottages in Raymond, and his beloved home on Bear Trap Mountain in Bridgton. He loved the panoramic views, living in the clouds with the world at his finger tips. Bob had many interests including his love of dogs, particularly his Emjay. He was enthusiastic when it came to horticulture, maintaining beautiful organic gardens at his home year after year. Oftentimes music, especially the "Oldies," could be heard from his deck overlooking the mountains. Bob was an avid reader. His house was chock full of books of all kinds. He enjoyed writing and discussing world events, politics, finances and sports. Though Bob enjoyed all these things what he loved most was to make people smile. With a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his face his quick wit would make you laugh time after time.

Bob had many, many friends near and far.

He had many lifelong friends from childhood such as Steve Sprague, who was like a brother to him. They would say about each other "I don’t ever remember not knowing him." Bob was predeceased by his parents, Robert F. Murphy Sr. and Teresa I. Murphy, as well as a very special aunt, Solange Croteau, who spent countless hours talking to him on the phone. Bob was extremely saddened by his aunt's passing, and found a large void in his life.

He leaves behind his wife Cynthia M. Murphy; a daughter Samantha L. Murphy; a son Robert F. Murphy III; and a granddaughter Layla L. Blais he adored. Also surviving are siblings Marie A. Murphy of Casco, Richard R. Murphy of Biddeford,  Diane J. Snow of Limerick, Jo-Ann C. Murphy of Biddeford as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a gathering of friends and family to celebrate Bob's life Saturday, May 11, 2013 at 1 p.m. at his home on Bear Trap Mountain in Bridgton.

Arrangements are under the care of Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services, 981 Forest Ave. Portland. Please visit www.advantageportland.com to sign his guestbook.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: American Lung Association, 122 State St., Augusta, ME 04330.