SOUTH NEW BERLIN, N.Y. (WKTV) - George Murray just recently had the trip of a lifetime to Yankee Stadium. Murray and his family were the special guests of the Yankees, part of the team's special program. George Murray, of South New Berlin, passed away following a long battle with A.L.S., Lou Gehrig's disease.

Murray and his family were the focus of "Hope Week" at the stadium. The Murrays met many of the Yankees' players, and were given player-led tours of the stadium, receiving plenty of memorabilia.

Murray, 38, passed away peacefully at Chenango Memorial Hospital, according to his obituary, surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, August 4, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Murray, and son, Trason Murray, of South New Berlin. He also is survived by his parents and brothers, Frank Murray of Utica and Michael Matys of Sierra Vista, Arizona, along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Murray served in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne Division as a forward observer paratrooper. He attended Mohawk Valley Community College, State University of Oneonta, and the College of St. Rose, where he earned a Master's degree as an elementary guidance counselor.

He was employed as a guidance counselor for ONC BOCES, as well as for the Oneonta City School District at Riverside Elementary School.

At George's request, there is no funeral service and no burial. He chose to donate his body to science in the hope that a cure might be found for ALS. He also donated his corneas for transplant to help someone else gain sight.

A celebration of life service will take place at 3 p.m. On Saturday August 15 at the Murray residence.

Donations may be made in George's name to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive in Oneonta.

Some of you have been leaving condolences on our website.

Brianne writes: "To all those who made this possible, you are angels... it is comforting to know he had his dream come true. What a blessing."

Another viewer writes: "You will be forever missed. I know that you are happy now and the suffering is all over. Goodbye to a great person."