Jeff Murphy, vp/international at the International Housewares Association, passed away June 7 during a hiking trip to Yellowstone National Park. He was 53.
Murphy’s death was the result of a fall near Turkey Pen Peak in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, according to National Park Service officials.
“On behalf of IHA and the housewares industry, our collective heart goes out to Jeff’s family,” said Phil Brandl, IHA president and CEO. “Jeff will be missed greatly here at IHA. He was a very intelligent professional, team player and a warm-hearted, kind person. He was a great friend to all, and IHA staff and his many colleagues around the world are struggling with this tragic news.”
Murphy joined IHA on February 1. He was a long-time member of the IHA through his work in international sales for more than 20 years. Before joining IHA, Murphy served as vp/international sales at Wilton Brands for more than 13 years. Before that, he was an international sales consultant, working with clients such as Nordic Ware, Progressive International, Home Products International, Pfaltzgraff, Anchor Hocking Glass and Wilton Brands.
Murphy is survived by his wife, Erica, and children, Collin, 15, and Megan, 11. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held July 8 from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Westwood Tavern, Schaumburg, IL. A GoFundMe account has been established in Jeff Murphy’s name toward with his children’s tuition.: www.gofundme.com/jeff-murphy-memorial
