Obituaries : * Leon G. Purdy; Retired Locomotive Engineer
Leon G. Purdy, a former locomotive engineer and a longtime Camarillo resident, has died. He was 88.
A native of Joliet, Ill., Purdy died Monday at a Ventura nursing home, said his daughter-in-law, Shiral Purdy.
Purdy moved to Leisure Village in 1976 after retiring as a locomotive engineer for the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railroad in Joliet, Shiral Purdy said.
Purdy enjoyed wood carving as a hobby, Shiral Purdy said. Among the many wood pieces he made are several clocks and tea carts, which he gave to friends and family members, she said.
He also enjoyed restoring antique furniture.
“His whole garage was filled with tools and books on wood,” Shiral Purdy said. “He took pride in bringing antiques back to life.”
Purdy is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Ronald L. and Shiral Purdy of Westlake Village; another son, William C. Purdy of Ventura; a daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Kenneth Bicknell of Channahon, Ill.; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Brothers Griffin Mortuary in Camarillo.
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