Purl James Finke, 92, of High Hill, MO, died on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at the Noble Health Community Hospital in Mexico, MO.

Purl James Finke was born on March 13, 1929 in Big Spring, MO, to John Frederick Finke and Nellie Josaphine Hart Finke.

Purl joined the Marines in 1951 and served in the Koran War. Purl married Barbara Joan Martin on March 2, 1957 in St. Louis County, and they were married for over 45 wonderful years when Joan passed on August 4, 2002. Purl was a farmer and a machinist most of his life. He worked at McDonnell Douglas during the early years of the Space Race. He worked on projects Mercury and Gemini and enjoyed telling stories about encounters with the astronauts and answering specific questions John Glenn asked about the capsule. Purl retired in 1991 and continued farming, raising grain crops and cattle.

He was a devoted husband and father. His family was a great source of joy to him. He was extremely proud of his grandchildren and spoiled them just right. He enjoyed reading to his great-granddaughters, FaceTime visits, and sharing ice cream when they visited.

Purl was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, a 70 year member and Past Master of the Masonic Lodge, joining with his father and brother John "Pete" Finke in McKittrick then transferring to Jonesburg 457 when the family moved to the prairie. He also enjoyed visiting with all his family and friends.

Purl is survived by one daughter, Laura Papp and husband, Mike, of Nixa, MO; one son, Michael Finke and wife, Jennifer of New Florence, MO; three grandchildren: Eric Papp and wife, Suzana of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil; Claire Papp of Memphis, TN; and Logan Finke of New Florence, MO; and three great-grandchildren: Ana Papp, Emily Papp and Evelyn Papp, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Purl was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nellie Hart Finke; wife, Barbara Joan Martin Finke; nine brothers and sisters and beloved in-laws.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Schlanker Funeral Home in Montgomery City, MO, with a Masonic Service at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at St. John's United Church of Christ in High Hill, MO. The Reverend Donald Deeker will officiate and interment with full military honors will be in the Jonesburg City Cemetery in Jonesburg, MO.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John's United Church of Christ, c/o Schlanker Funeral Home, 207 Danville Road, Montgomery City, MO 63361.