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Kenneth Eugene Purlee, age 85, of Burr Oak, died peacefully Wednesday, March 12, 2025 in the comfort of his family’s presence.
His life began May 9, 1939 in Dowagiac, the youngest of four children born to William and Margaret Purlee. He married JoAnne Culp November 24, 1961 in Kalamazoo.
Ken served honorably in the U.S. Navy serving aboard the USS Forrestal. He loved the Lord and he loved his family and served as a mentor to those new in Christian faith. Beside spending time with the family, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and woodworking.
Ken will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, JoAnne Purlee; one daughter, Ann (Thomas) Darrington; one son, Gregory (Tonya) Purlee; ten grandchildren, Valli (BJ) Mallen, Jeffrey (Melody) Wright, Thomas (Rosa) Darrington, Aaron Purlee, Jenna (Jacob) Fulton, Robin (Tom) Beal, Tracy Purlee, Corey (Megan) Block, Tyler (Kerri Doutlick) Block, Marshall Block; fifteen great grandchildren; one brother, George (Bonnie) Purlee; one brother-in-law, Jerry (Karen) Culp; one sister-in-law, Patricia (Bert) Anderson; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, William Purlee, James Purlee; and one sister-in-law, Darlene Purlee.
Ken will be laid to rest beside his family in a private ceremony in Prospect Hill Cemetery in Cassopolis where he will be accorded Military Honors.
For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain – Philippians 1:21
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Ken’s life Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in Living Hope Fellowship, 600 North Nottawa Street, Sturgis.
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints – Psalms 116:15
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.
