Paula Alane Purtzer, 68, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 19, 2024. She was born on August 19, 1956, in Joplin, MO, the third of five children. After graduating from Gilmore City-Bradgate High School in 1974, Paula earned her Associate's Degree from Iowa Central Community College in 1975. On September 10, 1977, she married William “Bill” Purtzer in Gilmore City, Iowa, and together they were blessed with twin daughters, Erica and Jocelyn. Paula and Bill shared 43 wonderful years together.
Paula enjoyed attending musicals and local sporting events, supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes, trips with her sisters and daughters, winters in the South, and summers at Lake Okoboji. A devoted Catholic and long-time member of St. Teresa Study Club, she valued the friendships she made there and was a loyal, cherished friend to those closest to her. Paula had several hobbies, including puzzling, gardening, decorating her home, and reading. Above all, Paula cherished her time with her five precious grandchildren. As their biggest cheerleader, she supported them in all their activities, from golf and soccer to volleyball, basketball, football, and track. Paula was a constant, loving presence in their lives.
Paula was preceded in death by her mother, Kathryn (Rigwood) Emery; her husband, William Purtzer; her brother, Eric Emery; her sister, Maureen Baker; and her father- and mother-in-law, Dr. J.W. and Betty Purtzer. She is survived by her daughters, Erica (Sayer) Martin and Jocelyn (Christian) McGee; her beloved grandchildren, Leighton and Campbell Martin, and Jonah, Nevin, and Cael McGee; her sisters, Lisa (Patrick) McLarty and Michelle (James) Ault; sister-in-law Janet (Keith) Gillespie and several nieces and nephews.
Donations can be addressed to her family for later distribution.
