Murl Edward Erwin, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at the age of 88, on January 4, 2025, at his home in Bolivar, Missouri. Murl was born to William and Sara (Patterson) Erwin on September 10, 1936, in Springfield, Missouri. After living most of his early years in Springfield, Murl moved with his parents to the Morrisville area in Polk County where he continued his education in the Marion C. Early School District. After high school, Murl fulfilled his patriotic duty by joining the United States Army. He proudly served as an American soldier until his honorable discharge on September 30, 1962. Murl was united in marriage to Barbara Burk on March 21, 1966 in Miami, Oklahoma. The couple shared 58 years of marriage before his untimely passing on January 4, 2025. Murl and Barbara were blessed with one daughter, Kim.

For many years, Murl was employed by the Greene County Highway Department while living in the Springfield area. He worked to construct new roads and maintain existing roads throughout the county. Murl was praised for being a dedicated employee who worked hard every day. On the side, Murl and Barbara owned and operated the Class Act Flea Market located on Commercial Street in Springfield. After eighteen years of successful ownership, Murl and Barbara sold their business in 2004 and moved their family to a twenty-acre farm in Greenfield, Missouri. On the farm, Murl raised cows, pigs, chickens, rabbits, and ducks, and thoroughly enjoyed his life as a farmer. After seven years, Murl and Barbara left their farm and moved to Bolivar, Missouri. This would be the couple’s final move. In Bolivar, Murl enjoyed his life as a gardener, brushhogger, and everyone’s favorite “wheeler and dealer.”

Murl was a man of many interests and pastimes. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He especially liked to catch walleye and crappies from his boat at Stockton Lake. Murl and Barbara shared many special times at the lake and in the great outdoors. Fewer things brought him more pleasure than simply riding on his lawnmower and tending to his gardens. Murl will be remembered as a hardworking, down-to-earth man who had a great sense of humor. He loved to laugh, tease, and joke around with his family and friends. He will also be remembered for being a good man with a generous soul and a tender heart. He was strong-willed, tough-as-nails, and a man of his word. Murl leaves a legacy of unconditional love, kindness, and laughter. He will be deeply missed by everyone whose life he touched.

Murl was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, and two brothers. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Erwin; daughter, Kim Ingersoll; grandchildren, Sam Ingersoll and Isabel Ingersoll; two great-grandchildren, Samara Ingersoll and Onyx Ingersoll; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Murl’s family will host a visitation on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 10:00-11:00 am, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield. A funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:00 am. Murl will be laid to rest at Brighton Cemetery in Polk County. Following the service, there will be a formal procession from the funeral home to the cemetery.

Arrangements are under the compassionate direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, Missouri.