It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sensei Murray James Mahoney, who died on January 28, 2026, at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, following a brief illness, at the age of 72.
Sensei Murray was a valued member of the martial arts community, training with dedication and consistency. He was affiliated with the Snow Tiger Martial Arts Association, the 8 Wing Martial Arts Club, Kai-Shin Karate, and the Canadian Jiu-Jitsu Council. Sensei Murray attended the dojo in Madoc three times a week in person and also participated in online classes — committed not only to the training, but to the people around him.
Beyond the dojo, Sensei Murray was known as a man of quiet capability and generous spirit — the friend who showed up, the neighbour who helped, the person who would go out of his way to lend a hand. Many knew him for his knack with all things electrical (and his legendary ability to fix “everybody’s generators”), his great sense of humour, and the easy camaraderie he shared with friends and family.
Sensei Murray was the beloved husband of Irene (née Dafoe), and a devoted father to Derrick and Robert (Alley). He was predeceased by his parents Charles Francis Mahoney and Flora Ann Lewis, and is lovingly remembered by his siblings and extended family, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
The Mahoney family also extends special thanks to the doctors and nursing staff at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, with special recognition of Nurse Nate, Level 3, ICU Room 18.
Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Edmund’s Church, StoCo, with a reception to follow at St. Edmund’s Parish Hall.
Memorial donations may be made to Campbellford Memorial Hospital or Peterborough Regional Health Centre.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Steele Funeral Home, Belleville (613-968-2273).
On behalf of the Snow Tiger Martial Arts Association, we extend our deepest condolences to Irene, the Mahoney family, and all who trained with and cared for Sensei Murray. He will be remembered with respect — and missed.
https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/steele/obituaries/murray-james-mahoney/155382.html
