Dennis R Murphy

Dennis "Doc" Rand Murphy, 86, of Bismarck ND passed away Friday March 27, 2026 at CHI St. Alexius Medical Center. Born April 14, 1939 in Jamestown ND, to F.E “Bud” Murphy and Genevieve “Gerry” (Rand) Murphy. He was a devout Catholic and belonged to The Cathedral of The Holy Spirit in Bismarck. Dennis grew up in Jamestown and attended St. John’s Academy grade and high school, graduating in 1957 and then from the University of Jamestown, graduating in 1961. During his school years he worked at KEYJ, KSJB and Gene’s Conoco. After college Dennis worked his entire career for the State of ND Transportation Department Central Radio Shop. He retired in 1998 after 38 years of service. He lived in both Minot and Bismarck for his work and remained in Bismarck. 

Dennis enjoyed many hobbies included learning, traveling, reading, collecting and said he was “never bored”. He was an active member of Central Dakota Amateur Radio Club. In the HAM radio world, he was known as “Doc, Murph or KOGRM,” he was passionate about giving back to his community and took great pride in his state and country. He volunteered often in Bismarck, Jamestown and notably in the Greater Minneapolis area at the Pavek Museum of Electronic Communication and the Bakken Museum, (focused on electricity). Many of his vintage collectible items will be donated to those museums he loved. He was also an avid supporter of Prairie Public Radio, the Anne Carlson School, Bismarck Zoo, and numerous Catholic organizations. 

Dennis is survived by his sister, Jean “Randy” (Murphy) Ebertz & her husband Jerry Ebertz; Tucson, AZ, niece Jillian May (Michael May), and grand-niece Alexis May, Minneapolis, MN He was preceded in death by his parents. He was also close to several cousins and good friends. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. Arrangements are in the care of Eddy Funeral Home of Jamestown. A private family burial will take place in the future, at Calvary Cemetery, Jamestown.