Virgil Lewis Purkey, 89, of Dillsburg, formerly of Hanover, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the Hershey Medical Center. He was the devoted husband of Joan E. (Whiteley) Purkey, with whom he shared 52 years of loving marriage.

Born on February 15, 1936, in Vago, West Virginia, Virgil was the son of the late David C. Purkey and Dora F. (Waid) Purkey. He moved to Hanover at a young age, where he was raised and attended school.

Virgil was a hardworking and skilled man who spent 27 years at General Motors, where he developed lasting friendships and was respected for his strong work ethic. Prior to his time at GM, he held a variety of hands-on jobs in construction, including home building—early work that reflected his love for using his hands. He was the kind of person who could fix just about anything, always tinkering, repairing, or building—very much like a "Mr. Fix-It" to those who knew him.

An avid outdoorsman, Virgil found joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, and caring for his yard. He loved spending time outside and took pride in maintaining his property. Family was at the heart of everything he did—he deeply loved his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, and nephews. He remained close to his extended family throughout his life and especially enjoyed visiting with his brothers and relatives.

In addition to his wife, Virgil is survived by his three daughters: Loretta A. Purkey of Horseshoe Bend, AR; Deborah J. Lester and her husband Dan of Gettysburg; and Christina L. Evans and her husband David of Dillsburg. He was a proud grandfather to Jaxon R. Evans and Emilee R. Evans. He is also survived by his brother, Donald Purkey, and many loving extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.

A memorial service to celebrate Virgil's life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Wetzel Funeral Home and Crematory, 549 Carlisle Street, Hanover, PA, with Pastor Randall Huber officiating. A time to visit with the family and share memories will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Marburg Memorial Gardens, Hanover.

To share memories of Virgil Lewis Purkey and to view a video tribute, please visit www.wetzelfuneralhome.com.