Kenneth Dr. Purdue

Dr. Kenneth Purdue, 61, of Viroqua, died Wednesday, September 17, 2014. Dr. Kenneth W. Purdue, 61, of Viroqua died Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2014, at Gundersen Health Systems in La Crosse, surrounded by family. He was born February 19, 1953 in Morris, Illinois to James Robert Purdue and Verna (Pehlman) Purdue. He attended Morris High School, received his B.S. from Western Illinois University, and his O.D. from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1977 before opening his practice in Viroqua. He was devoted to his career and patients and served the Viroqua community for 35 years. He met his wife, Jane Purdue (Haas), in high school. They attended their first dance together when they were 15-years-old and recently celebrated their 40th anniversary together on August 30, 2014. Jane was blessed to hear the words, "Oh, I love you so" before he passed. Ken loved being outdoorshunting, fishing, and walking whenever he could. He also enjoyed spending time with his close group of friends, playing poker with a regular group for over 20 years, traveling, being an active member of the Viroqua Church of Christ, and serving on the Vernon Memorial Hospital board for many years. Most of all, Ken loved spending time with his family. He was the kindest and most loving father, supporting his girls in whatever they did. His grandchildren brought him tremendous joy and he admired his son-in-laws kind nature and devotion to parenting. He loved family gatherings as well, where he could laugh with his brothers, John and Rick, and share stories with his many nieces and nephews and in-laws. Ken is survived by his mother, Verna; wife, Jane; his two daughters, Melissa and Katrina; his son-in-law, Chris, and his grandchildren, Maeve and Trent. Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service which will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, 2014 at the Viroqua Church of Christ. Pastor Jeff Coon will officiate. (There will be NO visitation prior to the services) Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. Because of his devotion to education, the family is starting a scholarship fund in his name. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be payable to Viroqua Area Schools Scholarship Fund in memory of Dr. Kenneth Purdue. When his daughters were growing up, every night he tucked them in with the following blessing: "May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift his countenance upon you and give you peace." May the Lord give him peace too, and let him rest feeling himself surrounded by the same love and comfort he always gave to others. Online condolences may be offered at www.VossFH.com The Vosseteig Larson Funeral Home of Viroqua is serving the family.