Bruce A. Purdie

Bruce A. Purdie, age 86, of Faribault, MN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at his home following an extended illness.

Bruce Allen was born on August 29, 1937, in Faribault, MN, the son of Clarence and Irene (Dow) Purdie.  He graduated from Faribault High School and Mankato State University, majoring in accounting.  Bruce served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1955-1959 and qualified as an Expert Rifleman in boot camp and every year of service.  He was married to Patricia M. Pelinka on June 11, 1959.  Bruce worked construction for a few years before joining his family business, Gopher Shooters Supply, Inc.  He was co-owner with his brothers, Keith and Dean, for many years until they sold the business in 1986.  Following the sale of the business, Bruce worked briefly for Hugh Boyer Accounting and Heselton Construction.

In retirement, Bruce and Patty loved to travel the country in their Airstream Trailer with their friends.  Bruce loved the outdoors and would often bike in many of their destinations, even the desert.  He was passionate about hunting, whether it was with a gun, bow, or camera and was a benefactor life member of the NRA.  Bruce was known best for being a person that served; his country, family, employees, and anyone who needed help.  He dedicated himself to the founding of the YMCA in Faribault, serving as the fundraising chair and was a hospice volunteer.

He is survived by his children, John Purdie (Mary Beth), and Susan Purdie (Laura Young); grandchildren, Claire Brueske (Matthew) and their children, Raylan and Trislynn, and Morgan Rock (Benjamin), and their son, Mason; longtime partner and companion, Judith Bosshart; sisters-in-law, Joan Purdie and Esther Purdie; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patty; parents, Clarence and Irene; brothers, Keith Purdie and Dean Purdie; and nephew, David Purdie.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home, 1725 Lyndale Ave. N., Faribault, with Bernadette Tatge, officiating.  Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. and on Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.