Murray Arnill former minister at Trinity United Church in Chapleau dies

Murray on left at official opening of new CHS in 1966

The Reverend Dr. Murray Arnill who was minister at Trinity United Church in Chapleau from 1966 to 1972, died Monday, April 14, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. 

 

During his time in Chapleau, the Christian Education addition to the church called Trinity Hall was opened in 1969.

 

Very much a part in community affairs, Murray served as a member and chair of the Chapleau Board of Education, president of the town hockey league, and chair of the winter carnival committee, among other activities including the Boy Scouts. 

In 1971, he was elected as one of five adults on an advisory board to Chapleau Youth Action, by the young people of Chapleau.

 

Coffee houses for youth in the church basement were the place to be on weekends during his time in Chapleau.

Murray left with George Evans, Manlio Spessot and Scouts

 

 Murray became chancellor of Huntington University later in his career and was awarded a doctorate degree.

 

Here is an obituary, prepared by his children which sums up Murray so well:

 

"Dad is survived by his children Catherine Hill (Francis) of Uxbridge, Tim Arnill of Newmarket, Barbara Taylor (Rob) of Barrie, The Rev. Mark Arnill (Janyce) of Deseronto and by his 14 grandchildren who love him and will miss him.

 

 "A poet, a friend, a Dad, a shepherd, a mentor and a fellow traveller; with humble joy and hard work, Dad served the various churches and larger body of believers as he worked throughout northern Ontario during his ministry and well into retirement. 

 

 "His door was open to both friend and stranger alike and the coffee was always on. It is with sadness that we acknowledge his death. It is with thankfulness that we celebrate his life. And it is with a certain sense of awe that we acknowledge Dad's amazingly wide open arms that welcomed any and everybody. Our family is huge! Thanks Dad. "Well done, good and faithful servant!" 

 

Family and friends received at the LOW & LOW FUNERAL HOME , 23 Main St. S., Uxbridge (905-852-3073) for visitation on Friday, April 25, 2014 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. 

 

Funeral service was to take place Saturday, April 26, 2014 at Trinity United Church, 20 First Avenue, Uxbridge at 1 p.m. with a reception to follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Huntington University, Sudbury or your local church would be appreciated. For online condolences, please visit www.lowandlow.ca12749043