Robert Harold Purdy, Sr.

Robert Harold Purdy Sr., age 88, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 11, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

Born on July 6, 1936, in McDonald, Pennsylvania, Robert moved to Vermilion from Elyria 55 years ago, making it his beloved home. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy and later built a distinguished 33-year career with the Federal Aviation Administration as an Air Traffic Controller, Programmer, and Supervisor, retiring in 1991.

A member of AMVETS Post #22 and the American Legion Post #397, Robert also attended Lake Avenue Baptist Church in Elyria. He was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed golfing, building puzzles, playing dice, and camping. Above all, he cherished time spent with family and friends and will be remembered for his warm humor and joyful spirit.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Alice (nee Shaffer) Purdy of Vermilion; his children, Robert Purdy Jr. of Delaware, Douglas E. Purdy of Wellington, Dorinda (Kevin) Burley of Pickerington, and Alan R. Purdy of Amherst; six grandchildren, Rebecca (Drue), Roberta (Ryan), Rennea, Shane (Ashli), Stephanie, and Ashley; ten great-grandchildren; his brother, Harold Lee Purdy of McDonald, PA; and sister-in-law, Ella Tesla.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold B. and Lillian M. (nee Chappell) Purdy.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, with Reverend Brady Smale officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens in Avon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852, or Stein Hospice, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.