Cyril Purkat

A Celebration of life gathering for Cyril Anthony Purkat, 89, of Gilbert, will be held from 2-4 PM Sunday, November 2, 2014 with a Rosary service at 3:45 PM at the Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Gilbert. Private inurnment will be in the Lakeside Cemetery, Biwabik. Cyril died peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, October 24, 2014 at St. Raphael's Health and Rehabilitation Center in Eveleth. Cyril was born on March 17, 1925 to Anton and Annie (Grahek) Purkat in McKinley, MN. He grew up in McKinley and graduated from the Gilbert High School. Following school, Cyril enlisted in the US Army serving during WWII. He was a hard working man, starting out his career as an over the road salesman for Remington Rand until settling down to start a family with his wife, Vail. It was then that Cyril went to work for Erie Mining Company until his retirement in 1986. Cyril also owned and operated the McKinley Liquor Store. In 1970, Cyril fulfilled his dream of owning a hobby farm when he and Vail purchased their farm in Hutter. Cyril enjoyed being outdoors and visiting his cabin on Whiteface. He especially enjoyed his toy train collection; buying, selling, and repairing them. Cyril was passionate about politics. He served as the Mayor of McKinley and as a council member. Cyril was a strong advocate of the Polymet Nickle Mining and keeping the Iron Range prosperous. Survivors include his five children: Kristie (Jerry) Hawkins of San Diego, CA, Craig (Mary Jo) Purkat of New Hope, MN, Connie (Lance) Larsin of Chisago City, MN, Brian (Cheryl) Purkat of Mansfield, TX, and Brenda (Jeff) Harvey of St. Croix Falls, WI; Ten grandchildren; Five Great-Grandchildren; one brother: Donald Purkat of McKinley; two sisters: Margaret Walling of Duluth and Jean (Roy) Korsman of Gilbert; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vail; a son, Brent Purkat; sister, Rosemary Prosen; and his parents, Anton and Annie.