Wesley Scott 'Wes' Murray, 74
Wesley Scott was born to Charlotta Evangeline and Aaron Bain Murray on Oct. 8, 1930. He was born in Elkart, Kan., but grew up in La Junta, Colo. As one of seven children during those meager times, there was little to spare but love, and the entire family's love of music.
The Murrays were all musicians, and Wes had many fond memories of traveling throughout southern Colorado first to watch, then, when he was old enough, perform alongside.
After a two year Navy enlistment he moved to California's "happening" country music scene where he first played music with "Mr. Don Dale" and even backing up Freddie Hart and Buck Owens.
Wes came to the valley in the early '60s when he settled in Bigfork and opened "The Coffee Cup" cafe.
He tried his hand at various entrepreneurial occupations, eventually working for the city of Kalispell where he retired after 13 years.
During all that time two things never changed - his passion for the Denver Broncos and love of country music.
From The Don Dale Trio to Wes Murray and the Country Edition, he entertained many throughout western Montana, earning a reputation as one of the best-loved country musicians around.
Wes passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on July 8, 2005, after a many years' long battle with heart disease.
He was surrounded by his family and those who loved him dearly.
He will be sorely missed.
Wes was preceded in death by his parents; as well as sisters, Alma and Beulah; and brother, Ralph.
Wes leaves behind wife DeeDee of Somers; children, Amy Bigley and Rob Morris of Kalispell; stepsons, Myk and Scott Wagers of Oregon; sisters, Alene Stewart and Lola Howell of La Junta, Colo.; and lifelong best "bud" and brother, Allen Murray and his wife, Bette, of Kalispell; as well as his three grandsons, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The Murray family would like to invite all who knew and loved Wes to join them in a celebration of his life.
This very special memorial/potluck/jam session will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at the Moose Lodge in Evergreen. Musicians welcome.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Kalispell Fire Department.