Richard William Purdy

Richard William Purdy

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - Richard William Purdy, "Rick", MSgt., USAF - Retired, passed away in Salt Lake City on Palm Sunday, March 24, 2024 after a brief battle with cancer.

Richard was born in Salt Lake City, UT on September 22, 1937 as the youngest child of William Gerald Purdy and Thelma Rose (Anderson) Purdy. On June 4, 1958 he married his eternal companion, Carolyn (Hales) Purdy, to whom he was sealed in the LDS Bountiful Temple on March 25, 1995.

They had four children: Michelle (Gamino) of Ft. Worth, TX, Richard Michael (Jennifer) of Salt Lake City, UT, Bradley Alan of Farmington, MN and James Kevin (Sally-Ann) of Seffner, FL.

Richard grew up in Bountiful, UT and attended Davis High School.

He joined the Air Force in 1954 and proudly served for 20 years in locations including California, Germany, Okinawa, Japan and South Dakota along with numerous temporary duty assignments throughout the world. He received his Associates degree from the National College of Business in Rapid City, SD and worked for an additional 20 years for the Indian Health Service at the former Sioux Sanitarium in Rapid City.

He was beloved by his family who have many fond memories of Dad, Grandpa, and Uncle Rick. As a young man he enjoyed sports of all kinds, but particularly loved playing basketball. He loved his country and was proud to wear the uniform of the United States Air Force. His assignments as a Military Policeman took him around the world which gave him a great appreciation for the many lands and cultures he experienced. He often remarked that serving in the Air Force was a life-changing experience.

His greatest love was for people, especially his family. He was always sensitive to those around him who may have been overlooked, neglected, or marginalized - making it his personal mission to reach out in friendship to everyone. Many anonymous gifts were received by those who were down on their luck. He wanted to help people without seeking any personal recognition.

He was a man of great faith. He served in many formal positions for his church as a teacher and a leader, but his greatest desire was for everyone to feel loved and accepted.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife and his parents, two brothers, a sister, and one granddaughter. He leaves behind four children; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. on April 15, 2024, at the Moon Meadows Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Rapid City, SD followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at the Black Hills National Cemetery.