Craig Phillip Murchland

Craig Phillip Murchland, 84, passed away in his home surrounded by his loving children on January 20, 2021. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of almost 60 years, Loralee K. Murchland. Craig was born to Robert George and Gabrielle Butler Murchland on August 21, 1936 in Evanston, IL and is predeceased by a brother, Mark Murchland and a sister, Diana Mrozinske. Craig was raised in Buchanan, MI and at the age of 18 years, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and served from 1954 to 1957. His military service shaped his future as a dedicated husband and father and successful businessman. Craig was employed at the Kawneer company for 25 years and continued his success as a self employed Manufacturer’s Representative until he retired.
During his high school years he met the love of his life, Loralee, and they began their life journey together. Craig and Loralee were loving pen pals while he was stationed in California and they married on June 8, 1957 soon after his honorable discharge from military duty. Craig’s career transferred the family from Michigan to the South where they resided in Smyrna, GA, Birmingham, AL and finally in Decatur, GA for the past 54 years. They were dedicated parents to four children, Paul (Jill) Murchland, Jay (Cindy) Murchland, Carl (Beth) Murchland and JoEllen (Read) Jacob. They are the proud grandparents of a dozen grandchildren; Erica, Heather, Brittany, Joel, Clint, Morgan, Craig, Ryan, Chad, Samantha, Emily and Hunter. They also have 3 great grandchildren, Wesley, Emma and Colbie.
Craig had a reputation of being a stern disciplinarian, a perfectionist and one who held high expectations for himself and his family. Those closest to him also knew that he was equally as loving, giving and dedicated to his family and his life’s work was for the benefit of our family circle. For many years, Craig and Loralee spent many weekends playing golf and cards with a large circle of friends. They enjoyed hosting Sunday dinners for the family and made many lasting memories that all of the family will hold dear and will carry on for future generations.
Services for Craig and Loralee will be held at A.S.Turner and Sons Funeral Home located at 2773 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, GA on Monday, Feb. 8th. The family will receive guests from 10:30 to 11:30 with a service to follow from 11:30-12:00. Immediate family will then ride in procession to Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA for a military burial where they will be laid to rest together. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in their memory to the Quantico Marine Corp Museum c/o Marine Corp Heritage Foundation at www.marineheritage.org or checks can be mailed to
Marine Heritage Foundation
18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Triangle, VA 22172