Donald Lee Purk

Donald Lee Purk, 71, died unexpectedly Thursday, May 28, 2020 at Bronson Hospital. He was born January 14, 1949 in Kalamazoo, MI a son of Bernard Purk and Leona (Prout) Schwartz and graduated from Mattawan High School in 1967. Don joined the US Army in June of 1968, served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division from November of 1968 to November of 1969 and was honorably discharged in 1971. He retired from General Motors after 35 years of service. Don was instrumental in coordinating and constructing the Climax-Scotts High School Concession Stand; served as President of the Lawrence Memorial Library; served as President of the Climax-Scotts Athletic Boosters; and was a member of the Climax American Legion Post 465 for 32 years. He was a past member of the Mopar Car Club, enjoyed being a CarStar detailer and working at Southern Michigan Auto Body. Don loved NASCAR races and listening to Motown music. Don was preceded in death by his father, Bernie Purk, stepmother, Marge Purk and mother-in-law, Lilo Brower. On December 20, 1969, Don married the former Ingrid Brower and they recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows. Don is survived by his wife, Ingrid; children, Carolee (Jesy) Hinton, Brandon (Katie) Purk and Megan (Jessica Kernan) Purk; grandchildren Tony Hinton, Emilee Hinton, Grayson Purk and Laney Purk; brothers, Robert (Carolyn) Purk, Terry (Darcy) Purk, Dale (Julie) Steigenberg and Rick (Linda) Steigenberg; several nieces and nephews; and many close friends, including Rich Thierjung and Lyle Parrish. Private services were held, and Don was buried in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. A celebration in honor of Don is being planned for a future date. Memorials may be directed to the Climax Scotts America Legion Post #465 or the Lawrence Memorial Library of Climax, MI. Services entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. To view Donald's personalized web page, please visit https://www.langelands.com