Joseph Jeff Murphy

Joseph "Jeff" Murphy, age 53, of Batavia, IL passed away June 8, 2017, during a hiking trip to Yellowstone National Park. He was born in Wiesbaden, Germany and lived in many places before settling in Batavia, IL. Jeff was a graduate of Berkley University majoring in linguistics which he utilized working in International Business for the past 20 years. He most recently worked for the International Housewares Association as Vice President, International following his 13-year vice president international sales position with Wilton Brands. Unassuming, yet extremely intelligent, kind and loyal, these describe Jeff. The kind of person who made others feel worthy because he had the ability to draw out a person's self-worth by being present in the conversation, all focus on the other person. World traveler, foodie, hiker, photographer and most importantly, husband, father, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 17 years Erica, children; Collin (14) and Megan (11), his parents Dennis and Kazuko Murphy, sisters; Tammy Murphy and Denice Murphy, aunt Toshiko DeRose and many other childhood friends and colleagues from around the world who he thought of as extended family. Celebration of Life will be from 6:00 PM to 11 PM Saturday, July 8 at Westwood Tavern & Tap, 1385 N. Meacham Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173 in the "Chicago" Room