Brian Murphy, age 65, died on Sunday, January 30, surrounded by his family. Brian worked in the Career Center beginning in 2011 and left in June 2021 as his health began to deteriorate due to a brain tumor. In his primary role as Program Director for Internships and Experiential Learning, Brian went above and beyond for students, supporting their dreams with careful listening and extensive research on their behalf.
Brian’s colleagues recall his warmth, character, kindness, and generous spirit. He made sure to remind them when it was “Spaghetti Wednesday” or “National Donut Day” (which took place anytime someone brought in donuts.) His contemplative approach brought much depth to conversations. A more complete obituary is attached.
Visitation will be held at the Bierman Funeral Home in Northfield on Wednesday, February 2 from 4–7pm, with masks requested to be worn. A private funeral will be held the next day.
Comments
Brian was one of the first to welcome me to my new but temporary office in AGH. Always thoughtful, happy, and welcoming. A light that was missed the moment he left Carleton.
Brian had a kind and generous spirit. A true renaissance man, we could find ourselves in conversations on the origin of words, British mysteries, or a variety of musical genres. We have felt his absence in unexpected ways - he added so much to our community. My heart goes out to his children, friends, and pets. Brian will be missed.
Brian made such a positive impact on my Carleton son. I know Marcus so enjoyed his conversations with Brian at the Career Center. I thanked Brian before Marcus graduated, and this is one more time to say 'Thank you!'
We loved sharing music with Brian during the monthly open mic at Hot Spot Music. He was indeed a renaissance man, and introduced us to many beautiful songs and singers form Ireland, Scotland and his childhood home in Maine. He will be dearly missed!
I’m so sad to see this. I valued Brian as a colleague who always lent a hand when I needed a collaborator in the Career Center, but also as a fellow Northfielder. We took care of his cat a few times, and once my daughter accidentally lost his house key. He laughed it off as one of those things and rehired her anyhow! He will be missed. My condolences to Lori and their children.
Brian was such a unique and gentle individual who's light shined brightly in so many ways. He will be missed by so many. Sympathies to his family.
Brian was such a kind and positive person and was a great addition to the Carleton community. He is greatly missed and I'm so sad to hear of this loss.
Brian was just the kindest, most good-natured human being one could ever encounter at Carleton. That is saying a lot because our community has an abundance of such folks. But Brian, somehow, was a level more generous, kind-hearted, mellow, and warm than most. It was always a pleasure to work with him on joint projects involving the Career Center. Well before that point, he was one of the fellow parents that stood with us outside Spring Creek (f.k.a. Sibley) Elementary waiting for our kids. And before then, at the Northfield Daycare. We will miss him as a member of our community, both at Carleton and in Northfield.
I was sad to learn of Brian's death. Brian was a colleague at the St. Olaf enrollment division for a number of years before he went to the Career Center at St. Olaf. But as fellow members of all the various communities in Northfield, including Northfield Daycare and that of Northfield dog owners, Brian remained part of our lives. What a loss to his family and his children whom he loved so dearly.