Laurier mourns Professor Emeritus J. Alex Murray

Dec. 22, 2022

Wilfrid Laurier University is saddened by the passing of J. Alex Murray, professor emeritus and former dean of the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Laurier. Alex passed away Dec. 19, 2022. He was 88.

Alex served as the dean of Laurier’s School of Business and Economics from 1982 to 1996 – the only dean to serve three consecutive terms with the school. During his time at Laurier, Alex contributed to the creation of several initiatives including the full-time Master of Business Administration program, diploma in management studies, and the Economic Outlook series. Following his deanship, Alex served as the director of Laurier International.

Alex is remembered for his commitment to the student experience. He was integral to the creation of Prism, the DOW Student Centre and ensured the involvement of the corporate community in all aspects of Laurier’s business programs.

The Lazaridis School of Business and Economics established the J. Alex Murray Alumni Award in 2013 to honour Alex’s commitment to Laurier’s business programs. The award recognizes leadership, initiative, contributions to the business world, the community, and Laurier; it is the highest honour given to alumni by the Lazaridis School.

Alex was an accomplished scholar. He received his Bachelor of Commerce at Assumption University, his Master of Business Administration at McMaster University and his PhD at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Alex leaves behind his children Mark, John, and Mona, their partners, and six grandchildren. He will be missed by members of his extended family, many friends and former colleagues.

Alex's family will receive relatives and friends Dec. 28 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick St., Kitchener. The funeral will take place on Dec. 29 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 173 Lourdes St. West, Waterloo. The service will also be streamed live at https://www.henrywalser.com/live-streaming.