Jack Schwab gave a heartfelt remembrance of his friend, neighbor, and fellow Rotarian Denny Purkey. The two men met as neighbors in 1981 and Denny soon joined Tigard Rotary. Despite his commitment to the Four-Way Test, Denny is remembered as a flamboyant dresser who liked to call attention to himself.
Denny Purkey was a Paul Harris Fellow 20 times over. He received the District Governor’s Citation for Outstanding President, the Governor’s Citation for Meritorious Service, and was a Rotarian of the Year. He served as event chair for the International Rotary Convention when it was held in Portland in 1990. He was one of the best fund raisers in the club’s history.
Denny’s service to others didn’t stop at Rotary. He was also a Royal Rosarian for the City of Portland, a frequent announcer for the annual Grand Floral Parade, and a volunteer for Shriner’s Hospital. He supported Medical Teams International as well.
Mr. Purkey was born in Texas, the son of dryland farmers who moved to San Bernardino when he was young. He graduated from USC with an engineering degree and spent many years as a licensed tax consultant.
Jack was the best man at Denny’s 4th marriage to Diane. Son, Mike Purkey was also a long-time member of Tigard Rotary.
Denny Purkey passed away in 2010 but his legacy will be long remembered. “We lost someone we loved, but he accomplished so much while he was alive.”