David Purkett

David Purkett

Retired Bynum grocer and postmaster David Francis Purkett, 71, died on March 29, 2013, at hospice in Great Falls of complications from a stroke.

David was born May 17, 1941, to Charles Purkett and Agnes Becwar. He was the "baby" of the family of four boys and loving parents. His family owned Purkett's Grocery and operated the Bynum Post Office for many years.

After completing school at Bynum Elementary and Choteau High School, David pursued a law enforcement career by working as a deputy sheriff for Teton County. As life's responsibilities changed, he took over the family business. He also joined the Air National Guard and was a proud member until his retirement.

In November 1963, David married Lynn Rowley. This marriage lasted 17 years and produced two daughters, Rose Marie Ann and Thora LaMar. From the moment they arrived, he became a devoted and loving father until his death. Everyone in Bynum knew about his daughters, and he bragged to anyone who would listen about their accomplishments.

In the early 1980s, David met his true soul mate, Anna Dormady. For the next 17 years until Anna's untimely death, they were adventurers in their love of fishing, camping and panning for Montana sapphires. Anna's children, Donald, Leonard, Pearl and Roy, became Dave's additional children. He loved and cared for them as much as his own.

After David closed the grocery store and retired as postmaster, he enjoyed his retirement by visiting within his community. He often was delivering packages and mail to his friends and spending time with them over lunch. His sudden departure has left a hole in many hearts, and his community will miss his good humor and his friendship.

His survivors include his daughters, Rose Marie Purkett of Bynum and Thora Beck of Havre; a brother, Thomas Purkett of Spokane, Wash .; grandchildren, Miranda Purkett of Choteau, Kristina Purkett of Conrad and Trevor Beck of Havre; and a great-granddaughter, Arionna Purkett of Choteau.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Roger Purkett and Charles Purkett Jr.

A celebration of his life for all his family and many friends will be set at a later date. Please watch the newspaper for notification. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Gorder Jensen Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at http://www.gorderjensenfuneralhome.com

Memorials are suggested to the Choteau American Legion or to the Wounded Warrior Project.