Obituary of Anthony A. Purda

"Glendale, AZ, Anthony A. Purda, 54, formerly of the Thorndike section of Palmer, was called home to be with his Savior on Sunday, December 3 as a result of an auto accident in Phoenix. Born in Palmer, June 21, 1952, he was the son of Augustus “Gus” and Janet (DePace) Purda of Palmer. Tony grew up in Thorndike and was a graduate of Palmer High School. He received his Bachelor’s degree in marketing from Western New England College and has worked for Honeywell Auxiliary Power Unit Division in Phoenix for 20 years. He and his wife are members of the Calvary Community Church in Phoenix. Tony was an accomplished saxophone and clarinet player, participated in several church orchestras, loved Big Band and Polish music, Chicago and Neil Young. He presently played in the Glendale Community College Band in Arizona. Tony was an avid jogger, hiker and enjoyed bowling. He loved his Red Sox, Patriots and NASCAR, but most of all he loved Jesus. While in Palmer, he played with the Cascella and St. Joseph’s Softball teams. Besides his parents, he will be deeply missed by his wife of 28 years, Patricia (Zajac) Purda, and numerous aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a sister Margaret “Mitzi” Purda in 1982. Funeral services will be Tuesday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m. Faith Baptist Church in Palmer followed by burial in Oak Knoll Cemetery. Calling hours will be Monday, December 11 at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. For those wishing, donations may be made to Calvary Community Church, 12612 N. Black Canyon Highway, Phoenix, 85029, reference Evangelism Explosion. "