TAMA-Leonard "Jake" Allison Purk, age 73, of Tama, died Wednesday morning, November 7, 2007 at Grandview Acres in Toledo due to a lengthy illness. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2007 at 11:00 AM at Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama with Pastor Dewey Grimes officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Tama. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 9 from 6 to 8 PM at Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama.
Jake was born on April 14, 1934 in Tama, the son of Harvey and Catherine (Birkey) Purk. He attended Tama County Schools. Jake was an entrepreneur of many trades. In December 1952, he was united in marriage to Donna Smith. Jake loved coon hunting and playing his keyboard for the public and special events. He also enjoyed going to the casino. His greatest joy was spending time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Donna; two sons, Frank and Max Purk; one daughter, Peggy Purk; and one brother, Bill Purk.
Survivors include his children, Beverly A. (Larry) Blocker of Tama, Michael A. (Nancy) Purk of Toledo, Charles H. (Becky) Purk of Tama, Luke A. Purk of Tama, Tait O. Purk of Tama, Sally L. (Tracy) Catherwood of Tama, Alfred E. (Linda) Purk of Tama, Joe W. Purk of Tama, and Clyde A. (Bonnie) Purk of Tama; twenty-seven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one brother Bob (Dolly) Purk of Belle Plaine; several cousins, nieces, nephews, and distant relatives; and a special friend Nellie.
A memorial fund has been established.