Robert B. Purkhiser

Robert B. Purkhiser, 91, of Port Hope died at Bay City Medical Center on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007 following hip replacement surgery and rehabilitation at Courtney Manor.

Born in Salem, Ind. on May 28, 1916, he was the son of the late James Benjamin and Grace (Brewer) Purkhiser.

He was married to LaVerne Schardein on July 13, 1940 and together they owned and operated Purkhiser's Rustic Cottages near Lighthouse Park from 1972 to 1989.

Robert also owned and operated DeHaven Coal Co., Hoosier Soil Service, and Purk's Bait and Tackle in Bluffton, Ind. until their move to Michigan in the early 70's. He was a member of the Elks Club in Bluffton, Ind. for many years. Robert was an avid sports fan. He loved the outdoors. He was a hunter, fisherman, and very much enjoyed Bluffton Tiger basketball, and the Purdue Boilermakers.

He is survived by a son, Jay Purkhiser and his wife, Beth, of Auburn, Ind.; a daughter-in-law, Suzy Purkhiser of Villeur Banne, France; two grandchildren, Caitlin and Kelly; several nieces and nephews; and a sister-in-law, Luella Purkhiser.

He was preceded in death by his wife, LaVerne; and a son, Robert Lynn.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 21, 2007 in the Ramsey Funeral Home, in Harbor Beach with Karen of Heartland Hospice officiating. Burial will be in New River Cemetery near Huron City.

Visitation will be from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday and from 10 a.m. until the time of services on Friday.

Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice.