\Casper businessman and philanthropist Mick McMurry has died.

Casper Police Chief Jim Wetzel confirmed McMurry died at his home on Tuesday morning, March 10th.

"At this stage we are just in the early protocols of standard death investigation. It's what we do in any situation, when we get called to a residence, and there's a deceased person there, and it would be premature at this point to say anything, further then that, as we are still just early on in the death investigation protocols."

The cause of death has not been determined.

McMurry was a pioneer with his father W.M. "Neil" McMurry in the production of natural gas from the Jonah Field near Pinedale in the 1990s.

In recent years, Mick McMurry and his wife Susie have made sizable donations to projects at the University of Wyoming and elsewhere around the state through their McMurry Foundation.

McMurry graduated from the University of Wyoming and served in Vietnam before returning home to work for his father's construction company.

Gov. Matt Mead says he recalls McMurry often saying he wanted to build a better Wyoming. The governor says he believes everyone would agree that McMurry did.

K2 Radio General manager Bob Price said:

"Death cannot steal from us the soul of Mickey McMurry. It will live forever in every fiber of this community."

Vickie Diamond, president and CEO of the Wyoming Medical Center, said in a prepared statement:

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mick’s family, and to his wife, Susie. Mick was not only a champion of health care, education and children in Casper and Wyoming, but he was a dear friend. Mick believed it is up to each of us to build the community in which we want to live, and the evidence of their generosity can be found across the state. Mick was loved and our sympathies are with his family.”

University of Wyoming President Dick McGinity issued the following statement today on the death of philanthropist and businessman Mick McMurry:

“The University of Wyoming has lost a tremendous friend and supporter with the passing of Mick McMurry. He and his wife, Susie, made contributions that have transformed our campus, made higher education more accessible for many, and improved the experience for students. His love for his community, the state and the university was evident in their unparalleled record of philanthropy. Our hearts go out to Susie and the rest of his family.”

Senator John Barrasso sent his condolences as well:

Mick McMurry’s life personified the Code of the West.  His death is a sad and terrible loss for the McMurry family, his friends and our state.  Mick was a friend to everyone and his loss is devastating."

“It’s hard to think of a more generous person in Wyoming.  While Mick will be remembered as one of Wyoming’s most successful businessmen, his philanthropy and contributions to Casper and the rest of our state will never be forgotten.  His positive influence will live on through the many people he inspired through his love of Wyoming and his commitment to others."

“Bobbi and I offer our deepest sympathies to Susie and the entire McMurry family.”

The Central Wyoming Boys and Girls Clubs issued this statement:

"What’s in the heart defines the measure of a man. Mick McMurry defined that standard to his wife Susie, kids, grand kids, his family and his community."

Ashley Bright, chief professional director of the Boys and Girls Clubs said:

"Mick was my mentor.  He was my example of setting limits and boundaries to serve my family and my profession.  I loved him dearly and carry his values forever in my heart.”

U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi said in a prepared statement:

"He had an ability to absorb information and make common sense decisions. He wasn't afraid to take risks. He and Susie have been an inspiring team. This a huge loss for his family and for all of us in Wyoming.”

 

 

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