In Memoriam Bill Murphy Respected Coinco Exec 68

WILDWOOD, MO -- Bill Murphy, a vending veteran who devoted his 40-year career to payment systems manufacturer Coin Acceptors Inc. (Coinco), died on Nov. 16. Murphy had struggled with his health after having his first heart attack at the age of 30, and succumbed to his ailments at 68 years old.

To many in the industry, Murphy was the face of St. Louis-based Coinco. "Bill never let any of his health issues keep him from doing what he so loved to do, and that was to be out in front of customers and selling Coinco products," according to his family. "Some would say that if you were to cut him, he would bleed Coinco red and black."

Coinco hired Murphy in 1965 to work at the Cincinnati branch's repair department. He was promoted to branch manager and later became a regional sales manager in Cincinnati, covering other Midwestern markets. Coinco eventually transferred him to its St. Louis headquarters to spearhead distributor sales. It was in this role that he gained the most prominence, making friends across the county and helping to drive Coinco sales.

"His charisma, coupled with his passion for work, characterized Bill throughout his career," the Murphy family said. "We don't think he ever had too many bad days and whenever he got in front of a customer, he would simply light up the room."

Murphy often spoke at national and regional conventions, and at distributor meetings. He was recognized for promoting MDB (multi-drop bus) as a communication standard for vending machines. He introduced Coinco's couponing program, an industry first, and even installed a Gold Box or two.

Murphy retired in 2005. Nine years later, the attendance at Murphy's memorial service held in late November reflected his lasting impact on the vending industry. "The turnout was tremendous with an outpouring of love from so many for a man that served the industry so well for so long," Murphy's family said.

Former Vending Times vice-president of sales Steve Zarolnick was a close friend of Murphy's for 25 years. "He was one of the most kind, generous, and fun loving people I've known," said Zarolnick. "However, even with all the fun, he was always dedicated to business and furthering the Coinco brand, products and the wonderful industry of which he was so much an integral part."

He is survived by his wife Jan; two sons, Rick and Scott, who also spent time working for Coinco; daughter Tara; and five grandchildren.