Sinclair Joseph Murchy Jr., age 97, died April 14, 2022, of heart-related illness.

Born in Aberdeen, Washington on Sept. 5, 1924, Joe Murchy joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in June 1943 and served as a navigator and gunner on B-17 airplanes. Stationed in Foggia, Italy, his plane was shot down while on a run over Germany and crash landed near the village of Hatalov, eastern Slovakia. MIA/POW, Joe was able to return to Italy and served out his tour of duty. Details of his story are available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFJtGKkYLi0&feature=youtu.be

After the war, Joe worked as a purchaser for international construction companies before settling in Eugene, Oregon. His last job before retirement was groundskeeper at Camp Harlow, a summer camp and ministry of First Baptist Church. He also served as head usher at the church until he was 95. In 2014 he moved to Sheldon Oaks retirement community where he enjoyed friendships and activities.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Anna Marie Murchy and one grandson, Joseph L. McGee. He is survived by five daughters: Sherron Murchy, Nadine Woods, Marlene Murchy, Leslie Murchy and Jody Murchy, also seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on May 22, 1:30 p.m., at the First Baptist Church, 3550 Fox Meadows, Eugene, Oregon. Final resting place will be at Sunset Hills Cemetery, 4810 Willamette St.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Harlow Camp Scholarship Fund, through the First Baptist Church.