Voss Edward Purkey

Voss Edward Purkey, age 83, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, at Countryside Manor Nursing Home. Born on January 10, 1941, in Anderson, Indiana, Voss lived a life rich with family, community service, and dedication to education.

Voss was a proud graduate of Anderson High School, class of 1959, always cherishing his identity as an "Indian." He continued his education and graduated from Ball State University in 1970. It was there that he met the love of his life, Amelia "Amy" Hesterberg, in 1962. They were married on September 21, 1963, in Carmel, Indiana, and together they built a beautiful family, raising four sons: Gerry Voss, Gregory Scott (who preceded him in death), Adam McPherson, and Timothy Ryan Purkey.

Voss dedicated 33 years of service to Delco Remy before embracing his true passion for education. After retirement, he earned his teaching certificate in U.S. history from Anderson University and went on to teach at Madison County Schools, positively impacting countless young lives. Voss extended his commitment to education by serving on the South Madison Community Schools Board from 1976 to 1980 and the Pendleton Park Board from 1976 to 1982. As a precinct committeeman for Fall Creek 1 and 8 throughout the 1980s, he demonstrated his passion for community involvement.

A talented tennis coach, Voss led the Pendleton Heights High School boys’ tennis team from 1981 to 1997, earning "Coach of the Year" honors in 1989 and 1992 in the White River Athletic Conference. He also served as the assistant girls' tennis coach at Highland High School and remained active with the Community Hospital tennis tournament for many years.

Voss's faith played an essential role in his life, as he became an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1965. Over the years, he fulfilled many callings within his church community, leaving a lasting legacy of service and faith.

Voss was an avid NASCAR fan, with a particular admiration for Dale Earnhardt. A lover of history, he enjoyed watching "Jeopardy!" and took great pleasure in attending his grandchildren's events, witnessing their achievements as they grew. As a board member of the Killbuck Concerned Citizens Association (KCCA) for 20 years, Voss worked tirelessly to improve and protect his community.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Amelia "Amy" Kathryn Purkey; sons Gerry Voss (Kim), Adam McPherson (Jenn), and Timothy Ryan Purkey; 10 loving grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. Voss is also survived by numerous family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Voss was preceded in death by his parents, Gereld Francis Purkey and Alice Marie Zetterburg; his stepfather, Walter Broshar; his brothers, Dallas Oscar and Jerald Francis Purkey; and his son, Gregory Scott Purkey.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Legacy Funeral Home. Services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 200 W 46th St, Anderson, IN 46013. Visitation will take place on Friday September 27th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the funeral service. Burial will be at Nelson Cemetery, 300 North, Anderson, IN 46012.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Anderson Ward Missionary Fund, 200 W 46th St, Anderson, IN 46013.

Voss Purkey's warmth, wisdom, and dedication to his family, faith, and community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.