Harlen Lee Purple

Harlen Lee Purple, 90, of Covington, IN, passed away 4:26 AM Thursday October 13, 2022 at Williamsport Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Harlen was born March 4, 1932 in Cates, IN the son of Albert Z. and Catheryn (Witsman) Purple. He married Mary Louise Olds December 7, 1956 in Covington; she preceded him in death June 8, 2019.

He is also preceded in death by two brothers, Wilmer and Bill Purple; and two sisters, Betty Scheurich, Shirley Craft.

Surviving family includes two daughters, Lisa Kirchenbauer, Lafayette, IN; Nancy (Duane) Roderick, Attica, IN; two sisters Elva Bailey, Crawfordsville; Frances (Eldon) Quick, Rantoul, IL; seven grandchildren, Chase (Shannon) Roderick, Dylan (Kirsten) Roderick, Sandra Kirchenbauer, Ashley (Johann)  Johansen, Emily (Jessup) Dowell, Corey (Allison) Roderick, Blake Roderick; six great-grandchildren, Liliana Johansen, Elijah Johansen, Ember Dowell, Harper Roderick, Weaver Roderick, and Smyth Roderick.

Harlen graduated from Covington High School in 1951. After graduation he served his country in the US Army during the Korean War stationed at Kimpo Air Base in Korea. He was employed for many years at Tee Pak in Danville, IL; retiring from there in 1994. He was a member of the Orchard Hills Church of Christ in Covington.

Harlen enjoyed camping with his family at Sugar Mill Lake while raising his daughters; and after his retirement he enjoyed traveling to Florida in their motor home to spend the winters. He also enjoyed his involvement with the Cushman Scooter Club.  More than anything he loved and enjoyed his family, and vacationing with his grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Sunday October 16, 2022 at Dickerson Funeral Home in Veedersburg, IN  with Dylan Roderick officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:00 Noon Sunday October 16 at the funeral home and continue until the time of service. Burial will be at Mt Hope Cemetery with military honors provided by American Legion Post #288 and the US Army. Online condolences at www.dickersonfuneralhome.com