Ryan Frank Murdock

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ryan Frank Murdock, who departed this world on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at his home in Taylorsville, Utah surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on November 7, 1966, in Pico Rivera, California with his identical twin brother Daren. His parents were Frank and Connie (Shurtliff) Murdock.

Ryan’s vibrant personality and enthusiasm for life were evident from an early age. As a baby he and his twin brother appeared in the TV pilot Garrison’s Gorillas, and by age 2 he was impressing others with his Lego creations. At 12 years Ryan showed responsibility by delivering newspapers for the Post Register in Idaho Falls. In high school he took on various jobs from dishwashing at the Elks Club to pizza delivery. He excelled academically by lettering in Debate and graduating at the top of his class from Bonneville High School in 1985. In his senior year, he and Daren managed a successful arcade in Shelley, Idaho. Ryan also brought joy to nursing home residents with weekly magic shows.

Ryan served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the England Manchester Mission where he touched many lives with his kindness and faith. It was in Rexburg, Idaho, at Ricks College where he met Brenda Sullivan, the love of his life. They were sealed for time and eternity in the Dallas, Texas LDS Temple on October 6, 1989. Together they built a beautiful family with their sons Robin Christopher and Max Allyn (Olyvia).

His intellectual curiosity and passion for engineering led him to study Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M University and Mechanical Engineering at Idaho State University. His positive attitude allowed him to excel despite debilitating seizures and severe diabetes.

Ryan’s professional career was marked by excellence. He was a distinguished engineer recognized for his significant contributions in the nuclear and natural gas industries, notably at the Idaho National Laboratory. His work was a testament to his dedication, intelligence, and expertise.

Ryan was preceded in death by his father Frank and his twin brother Daren. He is survived by his loving mother Connie and his devoted siblings: Melanie Norrell (Greg); Todd Murdock (Kimberly); Chad Murdock (Lesa); Dan Murdock (Brittney); Kaylin Manwaring (Benjamin); Cheryl Caouette; and Daren’s wife (Dottie). He also leaves behind 54 nieces and nephews and 23 great nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held to honor Ryan’s life on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house at 7115 South 3200 West, West Jordan, Utah. The family will be receiving friends and family at 11:00 a.m. The service will begin at 12:00 noon.