DAREK DAVID PURGIEL

Born on Nov. 20, 1977, in Alpena, Michigan, Darek was the beloved son of David and Colette Purgiel. He was warmly welcomed into the world by his big sister, Sarah. Raised in a close-knit community, Darek attended Posen Public School, where he played football and basketball, and built lifelong friendships marked by fun, loyalty, and a touch of mischief.

From a young age, Darek was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. At 18, he began his career as a laborer with Grand Traverse Construction. Over the years, through his hard work, hands-on skill, and natural leadership, he rose through the ranks to become the Chief Estimator of the company–a role he embraced with pride and purpose. In 2012, Darek became an invested partner in Grand Traverse Construction. He also served on the board of directors for the Builder’s Exchange of Northwest Michigan, contributing his insight and expertise to the broader construction community.

Darek’s proudest role in life, however, was that of a father. In 2002, he was blessed with his son, Gavin, whom he adored. In 2018, he met the love of his life, Sarah, and together they built a beautiful life, blending their families and hearts. Darek embraced Sarah’s children, Andrew and Ellie, as his own, becoming a devoted stepfather and steady presence in their lives.

Darek was an avid hunter and fisherman who found deep joy and peace in the outdoors. He and his cousin Tom spent countless hours perfecting their hunting property and making memories in the woods together. Each May, Darek looked forward to his annual fishing trip in Canada with his close-knit group of fishing buddies, whose friendship meant the world to him. Every fall, he eagerly returned to Ontonagon for a bird hunting trip with friends, always joined by his loyal dog Levi — his trusted, yet unskilled, hunting companion and beloved family member.

In addition to his love for the outdoors, Darek filled much of his adult life running marathons and mountain biking. He thrived on staying active and surrounded himself with a large, vibrant circle of friends — whether they were sharing the trail or sitting around a bonfire. Known for his quick wit and goofy sense of humor, Darek made people laugh easily. He was the kind of friend who would always show up — ready to lend a hand with a project, share a story, or lighten the mood with a well-timed joke. His presence was a gift to those around him.

Whether he was working on home projects, spending time in the Upper Peninsula, enjoying quiet evenings on the front porch with Sarah, or simply laughing with friends and family, Darek’s presence brought calm, humor, and warmth to every moment.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah; children Gavin, Andrew, and Ellie; his parents, David and Colette; his sister Sarah and her husband Jim, and their son Isaac; his father- and mother-in-law, John and Susan Ellis; his brothers-in-law Jay Ellis (wife Beth and their children Huck and Sylvie), and Dan Ellis (wife Carly and their children Emma and Grady). He is also deeply missed by many aunts, uncles, and cousins–too many to count–as well as lifelong friends, coworkers, and hunting and fishing buddies.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 22, at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home from 6:00 to 8 p.m., with a rosary service at 7:30 p.m. A second visitation will take place on Friday, May 23 at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Darek’s memory to NMMBA.

Darek’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him — through his laughter, his loyalty, and the impact he made on those around him.