On August 11, 2014, Roy “Bud” Purvis left this world for a better place, having made this world a better place.

Growing up in Kaw City, OK, Bud was very active in 4H and public speaking competitions, winning a multitude of awards. He worked his way through Oklahoma State University, and thus was a Cowboy all his life. Immediately following graduation, he embarked upon a 37 year career with Phillips Petroleum Company in various capacities and locations.

Bud built his retirement home in rural Dell Rapids, SD in 1999, turning part of his in law’s pasture into a garden spot that brought great pleasure to friends and family alike. Many were the birthdays/holidays/evenings spent picnicking “at Bud’s pond”.

While his residence was in South Dakota, Bud’s Oklahoma roots remained. He made regular trips to Bartlesville to see family, reconnect with friends, and spend time with his poker club. He and Mary, his wife of 20 years, travelled widely and often, making the most of their time together. Bud’s ability to converse was unparalleled and often laced with humor, the likes of which we will treasure in our hearts for years.

Bud’s life was a particular blessing to his wife Mary Joneson, his daughters Sheri (Mark) Sweeney and Susan (Brad) Jones, his sons Glenn (Tina) Purvis and Matt (Jennie) Purvis, his sister Carolyn (Bob) Wageneck, his 9 grandchildren, a host of extended family and friends, and his loyal canine companion Babe.

Visitation and sharing of memories will be at Dell Rapids Lutheran Church on Friday, August 15 at 7PM. Family will be present at 6PM. A celebration of Bud’s life will take place at Dell Rapids Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 16, at 11AM, with inurnment to follow at Riverview Cemetery, rural Dell Rapids.

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