Muriel L. Damon

Muriel L. Damon, 86, of McPherson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 11, 2013, at Pine Village, Moundridge.

Muriel LeaJean came into this world September 30, 1927, on the Kugler homestead at Riverton, Nebraska, to her loving parents, Clarence and Irene Kugler. Her brothers, Jack and then Arnold, soon followed, along with her sister, Rita, and brother, Mendal, a few years later.

At age twelve, Muriel accepted Christ into her heart at a youth camp in Cawker City, Kansas. This significant event was to mark a life that was dedicated to the love of her Lord.

In 1942, Muriel entered Central Academy in McPherson as a high school freshman. While there, she participated in choir and ladies trio, singing always being a significant part of her life and faith. She graduated in June 1947, marrying William Burns Damon, son of her history professor. Appropriately, the wedding took place at the Central College auditorium.

Burns promptly whisked her away to Washington State, where they resided in Walla Walla, Kennewick, and later in the beautiful Puget Sound area until 1972. They continued their life journey together and moved to Yucaipa California, working and raising their family. After the passing of Burns in 1995, Muriel moved “back home” to McPherson, a town that always held a special place in her heart.

She enjoyed her family and friends, attending church, singing, gardening, and her father Clarence's antique cars. Her Christian heritage was always a great source of comfort and joy.

Muriel's children include Melba and husband, Steve, Margie and husband, Tim, and Stephen and wife, Becky, and 13 wonderful grandchildren who all love the Lord. Grandma Damon's favorite oft-repeated statement to her grandchildren and children alike was, not “take care” as we all might say, but instead was “take joy!” Joy was always a quality that defined Muriel’s personality! She always had a ready and friendly smile!

She was preceded in death by daughters, Marcia Irene and Marlene Joy, parents Clarence and Irene Kugler, and her husband, William Burns Damon. She is survived by her younger siblings, Jack Kugler (wife Vanetta), Arnold Kugler (wife Dee), Rita Worthley (husband Darrell), and Mendal Kugler (wife Joan).

Muriel Kugler Damon's life was a celebration of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She will always be remembered as a devoted, joyful, and loving, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend!

The funeral service will be at 10:30 AM, Monday, December 16, 2013, at the McPherson Free Methodist Church with Rev. Tom Griffith and Rev. Deborah Somerville officiating. Burial will follow at the McPherson Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Sunday, at Stockham Family Funeral Home.

Memorial donations may be given to Gideons International in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Muriel L. Damon please visit our Sympathy Store.