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Stephen J. Murgas Jr., a beloved son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at the age of 89. Born September 11,1936 in Johnstown Pennsylvania. Stephen was the cherished son of Stephen Murgas Sr and Magdalene (Haluska). Stephen's life was a testament to love, resilience, and joy. He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Mary Jo Murgas, with whom he shared 56 beautiful years after marrying her on June 27, 1970. Together, they crafted a life filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering partnership. Stephen was also preceded in death by his first wife Mary Agnes Murgas, son, Stephen Murgas III, grandson, Brendan Cleary, sisters Madlyn and husband Eddie Trzeciak, Rosemary and husband Bob Kates, Cecilia and Husband Harry Roy, brothers Raymond Murgas, Robert Murgas and Paul Murgas.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Stephanie Cleary (and her husband Kevin) of Richmond, VA; Victoria Murgas of Johnstown, PA; and Jacqueline Borman and her husband Bill of Langhorne, PA. Stephen's legacy of warmth and humor lives on through his four cherished granddaughters: Kaitlin and Meghan Cleary, and Camryn and Addison Borman. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Karen Murgas of Apopka, Fl. his sisters in law Carol Murgas (wife of Robert), Marylou Murgas (wife of Raymond) and Cheryl Murgas (wife of Paul).
Stephen's life was marked by service and dedication. He attended Johnstown High School and proudly served in the US Army from 1954 to 1956. After his military service, he dedicated his career to Bethlehem Steel, where he worked until his retirement at the age of 62.
Known for his quick wit and warm smile, Stephen had an incredible ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. His love for life was evident through his hobbies, hunting and baseball, eventually developing passions for golfing, bowling, and playing cards. He and Mary Jo shared a fondness for visiting casinos, cherishing every opportunity to seek adventure together.
Stephen cherished time with his granddaughters, whether teaching them to play cards, drawing, painting, or taking walks together. His gentle humor and caring nature made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Funeral Mass to celebrate Stephen's life will be held on August 3, 2026, at St. Clement Catholic Church, Fr. William Rosenbaum, at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in Stephen's memory.
Interment to follow at Grandview Cemetery.
The family extends their heart felt gratitude to the staff at Heritage Ridge, 1 Laurel Highlands Hospice Care, and Conemaugh Memorial Hospital, as well as the family and friends who visited Stephen when the family could not. Your kindness and support have been a source of comfort during this difficult time
As we remember Stephen J. Murgas Jr., we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those he touched.
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