Obituary: 'Fred' Purves

Robert Fredrick Purves, 86, passed away in his home in Mount Shasta on February 10, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born October 3, 1934 to the late Robert and Genelle Purves.

After completion of Modoc High School in 1952, Fred proudly served in the US Army. Fred began his career at an early age with the railroad, retiring as an engineer. He dedicated himself to over 30 years of work with the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Fred was most comfortable in the outdoors, fly fishing or watching his dogs hunt game birds in the rim rocks and sagebrush that he frequently visited during his lifetime.

He honed his skills, as a marksmen, by competing in the Pacific International Trapshooting Association and accumulated many trophies and state titles from the Redding Gun Club, Sacramento Gun Club, and the CSTA competitions. He shared his skills, and the love of the outdoors with grandkids, nephews, and cousins.

Fred’s true love was for his family. Fred married Joan Freeman in December 14, 1971. They moved to Mount Shasta and lived there as Fred worked on the railroad run from Dunsmuir to Sacramento until

Joanne’s passing in 1998. In 2002 Fred reunited with a classmate, Vera planning the 50th high school reunion. They spent many wonderful years making memories with family and friends between their two homes in Madeline and Mount Shasta.

He was also preceded in death by stepson Frank Freeman and Cousin Charlotte Nosler. Although Fred is no longer with us, his memory and legacy will be kept alive through the family he leaves behind which include: Brother Mike Purves, cousin Patrick Purves, stepsons Rowdy and John Freeman and all of their extended families; as well as a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren and longtime friends, neighbors and other relatives.

A couple of days prior to his death, his granddaughter Jodie Veverka wrote and read a personal letter to him which was genuine and touching. An excerpt from this letter read as:

“Grandpa I love you more than you will ever know and you will always have a huge part of my heart as you have been a very important man in my life; one I have always looked up to and would try to make sure I never disappointed. I hope I have made you proud. I can’t thank you enough. You are the best grandpa anyone could ever ask for and I am so lucky to have you as my very own grandpa ChooChoo. I love you grandpa!”

This is a huge testament to how he touched the lives of all of the children he was associated with, and in fact, I believe each and every one of them share the same sentiment and would be happy to sign their name to that letter so eloquently written by Jodie.

Fred Purves will be remembered by his decency, sincerity and kind soul. A proud man with a big heart, who was cherished by his family, and will be missed and forever loved by family and friends. The family respects and will abide by his wish for no formal services.