James "Jim" Herbert Purkapile Jr.

James “Jim” Herbert Purkapile Jr., 81, of Fort Dodge, IA, died Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at his home.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at the Historic Bruce Funeral Home, 923 1st Avenue South, with Pastor Alaire Willits officiating.  Visitation will be from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Friday, December 8, 2023, at the Historic Bruce Funeral Home.  Interment will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the VFW Post 1856 and the U.S. Navy Honor Guard.  Memorials may be directed to the family.  Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge.

Jim was born August 15, 1942, in Seattle, WA, the son of James Sr. and Jean Marie (Nelson) Purkapile.  He graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High in 1961.  Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis from 1961 to 1965 after his honorable discharge.  Jim enjoyed working on cars, fishing and being outdoors.   He worked as a mechanic for many years.

Jim is survived by his son:  James “Jamie” Herbert Purkapile III and wife Karla of Fort Dodge; step-son:  Jerry LaBaume of Fort Dodge; 8 grandchildren:  DeAnna Studer, Desiree Farnsworth, Skyd Purkapile, Marleena Purkapile Orr and David Orr, James H. Purkapile IV, Serenity Purkapile; and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his companion of 37 years & love of his life:  Judith LaBaume.