Carol Murr

Carol Jean VanKuiken Murr, age 79 of Berea, KY, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at Fountain Circle Health and Rehab, Winchester KY. Carol was born May 17, 1940 in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of the late Wilbur and Ethel VanKuiken. After completing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education ; (Taylor University, IN) in 1968,Carol taught for five years in Grand Rapids, MI. During two mission trips to eastern KY, Carol fell deeply in love with the children of Appalachia. In the fall of 1968, she moved to Breathitt County where she taught those children for the next 24 years, first at Rehoboth Mountain Mission and then at Riverside Christian School. During this time, she also completed a Master Degree in Curriculum and Instruction (Michigan State University). Carol was instrumental in starting and organizing the Victorious Women retreat, which continues to this day. In 1987, Carol married Rev. Bob Murr, a widower, pastor and longtime missionary with Scripture Memory Mountain Mission (Camp Nathanael). Carol with Bob began two new ministries, becoming license wildlife rehabilitators and founding a popular outdoor education program which also still continues today. For their contribution to the people (and animals) of Kentucky, Carol and Bob received the Kentucky Admiral Award. They were both also very active in their church, Cutshin Bible Church. Carol is known by her many friends as a talented teacher, musician, music group leader, artist, Bible teacher, event organizer, and lover of animals, but most of all as a lover of God and of people. Carol Murr is preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Ethel VanKuiken, and by her husband, the Rev. Bob Murr. Carol leaves surviving one sister: Marilyn VanKuiken, one stepdaughter: Melody DuBois and Gary of Berea, KY, two stepsons: Tim Murr & Marla of Muskogee, OK; Mark Murr & Linda of Virginia. Carol is also survived by nine step-grandchildren and a host of treasured relatives and friends, all whom she counted as family. The family has requested in lieu of flowers donations may be made to either the Camp Nathanael ; Outdoor Education program, PO Box 129, Emmalena KY 41740 (or online) or the Victorious & Womens Retreat Scholarship Fund, P.O.Box 1186, Jackson KY 41339 (or online ). Carol was instrumental in starting both these; ministries they remained dear to her heart through the years.  In accordance with the regulations concerning the Covid-19 mandated by Gov. Beshear &  the KY. Funeral Directors Association the funeral service will be private and for immediate family; only.; A memorial service at Cutshin Bible Church (Yeaddiss, KY) will be scheduled at a later date to be announced.; You may send your condolences to the family at www.dwaynewalkerfuneralhome.com