Union Township supervisor retires after nearly half a century of service

RINGTOWN – After nearly a half century of service, a fixture in local government in the Ringtown Valley is retiring.

Robert Murray took office as a Union Township Supervisor by appointment in 1976 and was formally elected to the post a year later defeating Richard Leach.

He’s served the township of about 1,200 people ever since.

Much of his service was spent as secretary/treasurer and as roadmaster.

“I’ve loved this community since I visited here every summer from the age of five,” Murray wrote in his resignation letter. “I did my job… with deep respect for the township and all the people in the community.”

Murray has worked with seven different supervisors, 10 police officers, two solicitors, three secretaries and “many, many great guys who tirelessly took care of the roads and township property.”

The meeting room at the Union Township Municipal Building was standing room only with several former township employees in attendance.

“I know he cares so deeply about [Union Township],” Bob Matta, township solicitor, said. “Every time I’ve had any dealings with Rob, it’s always been above board, with kindness, with courtesy, and with respect. I try to pay that respect back to you, Rob.”

Murray’s fellow supervisors, Jeremy Rhoads and Dave Briggs, both recalled working for Murray at farms, the township, and other businesses.

“Part of why I ran for supervisor is because Robby Murray was a supervisor and he was always a great guy to be with,” Briggs said. “I wish you all the luck, Robby. You taught me a lot of things over the years, even the littlest things that you take for granted.”

Darrell Laudeman, a former supervisor for 24 years, also recalled working alongside Murray.

“He’s been a good friend and we’re going to miss him,” Laudeman said.

Murray was presented with a plaque recognizing his 48 years of service to the township.

Once the supervisors accepted Murray’s resignation, they voted to fill the vacancy, appointing Jeff Ambrose to fill his seat.

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