Obituary: Gregory Purple, Sr., 62, of Whitehall

Gregory Purple

Obituary: Gregory Purple, Sr., 62, of Whitehall

Gregory Lee Purple, Sr., 62, of Whitehall, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, after a short, but courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born December 29, 1960, to Robert and Loreen (Morrison) Purple, in Manistique. He was raised in Mason County, graduating from Mason County Eastern High School in 1980.

Greg’s enjoyment of music and a good time led him to the Carr Settlement Fireman’s Ball one summer’s night, where he met the woman with whom he would spend the rest of his life. On May 11, 1985, he married the former Amy Harmon and together they raised three children. In their early marriage, Greg and Amy could be found at Johnny’s of Custer most Saturday nights. They camped whenever they could, giving their kids a love of the outdoors. Over the last three summers, they spent many weekends with his siblings at the ‘Greco compound’ in Walhalla, their home away from home.

Greg was a wonderful husband, supporting Amy in her never-ending list of projects and search for the perfect side-hustle. He was a weekend mechanic and fixer of things, and worked on every car the family ever owned (and then some.) Greg was a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker and could create a jig or fixture for any project. He retired from Erdman Machine in September 2022, after almost 20 years.

Greg loved his family and was very proud of the adults that his children had become. His latest role of being a grandfather brought him so much joy. The special bond with Hazen, his first born grandson, was especially comforting in his final months. He will be greatly missed by both Hazen and Glenn.

Greg will be remembered for his willingness to help out, no matter the task, his sense of humor and contagious laughter. He was a master of “Dad” jokes and would throw out a movie line at the most fitting time.

Greg is survived by: his wife, Amy, and their children, Gregory (Heidi Clark) Purple, Jr., Devin (Cody) Dodd, and Nathan Purple; his grandsons, Hazen and Glenn Dodd; and his siblings, Robert (Annette) Purple, Roy Purple, Linda (Encarnacion) Pena Jr., Kathi (Ken) MacDonald, Billie Ann Purple, and Angela (Anthony) Greco. He enjoyed spending time with his many nieces and nephews, all of whom shared a special relationship with Greg.

Greg was preceded in death by: his parents, Robert and Loreen; and brother, Kenneth “Big Ken” Purple. We are comforted knowing that he has been reunited with them and is now relaxing at the nearest fishing hole.

A time of gathering to share memories and celebrate his life will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the American Legion Post Algot Johnson Post #69, 803 E Colby Street, Whitehall.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice, a charity of your choosing, or the family for final expenses.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.