Ronald L. Purkes "Slim"

March 2, 1939 - April 4, 2017

Ronald L. Purkes “Slim” Ronald L. Purkes was born the son of Edward Purkes and Claudine (nee Devers) Purkes on March 2, 1939, in Taylorville, Illinois and passed away peacefully April 4, 2017, in Morris, Illinois at Regency Care at the age of 78 years. He is survived by his wife, Kay (nee Myers) Purkes of the home in Minooka, Illinois; one son, Brian Purkes; and one daughter, Wendy Woods; three brothers, Art (Ruthie), Wayne (Angie) and Billy Purkes; one sister, Veronica (the late Rex) Moses; three grandchildren, Kevin Higgins, Michael Richardson and Laura Richardson; 8 great grand daughters, 2 great grandsons as well as numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. Preceded in death by his parents; one daughter Rhonda Higgins (2004); one grandson, Jason Higgins (2001) and one grand daughter, Jessica Woods (2015). Ronald retired from Caterpillar, Rockdale AVW Local, 851 after 32 years of service. He was a member of GWRRA, New Lenox Chapter Y and was fond of Country Music. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Visitation on Saturday, April 8, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at The Maple Funeral Home, 24300 W. Ford Rd., Channahon. For information www.themaplefuneralhome.com or 815. 467-1234.