Dallas I. "Buzz" Purnell

Dallas "Buzz" I. Purnell died Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at Bishop Place in Pullman following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 75. Buzz was born March 11, 1940 in Moscow to Willie and Arnona Flanigan Purnell. He grew up and attended Moscow schools. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany for three years working with tanks and artillery. Following his discharge, he returned to Moscow and worked in auto detailing. He got into brick laying and opened his own business, Purnell Masonry, retiring 2 ½ years ago. He was well known for his incredible workmanship. He also owned and operated the Slurp & Burp Tavern for a while. Buzz loved his dogs (Cody & Brandy) and took them everywhere. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially, camping, snowmobiling, water skiing, boating, hiking and four wheeling. He had every kind of toy a man could want. He enjoyed life to the fullest and loved his family and friends. He belonged to the Eagles and Moose Lodges in Moscow. Surviving are his daughter Shelley Gress (Gary Toppi and daughter MeLina) in San Diego; his son Corey Purnell (Leslie) of Moscow, and his sister Carol Barbour (John) in Spokane Valley, he also leaves nieces Ronda Hashim in Millcreek, and Stacy Harshberger in Spokane Valley. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Ron & Larry, and nephew Steve. The family suggests memorials be donations to the Humane Society of the Palouse. A graveside service was held on Friday at the Moscow Cemetery. A celebration of Buzz's life will begin at 5:00 PM Saturday (January 30th) at the Moscow Eagles Lodge, 123 South Main St., Moscow. Arrangements have been entrusted to Short's Funeral Chapel, Moscow, and online condolences may be sent to www.shortsfuneralchapel.net.