Robert “Butler Bob” L. Purper

Robert “Butler Bob” L. Purper, 85, of Renfrew passed away Thursday morning at his home after a short illness.

Born April 17, 1931, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Charles W. and Anna Galida Purper.

He was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church.

Robert attended Scranton University receiving a degree in chemistry. He worked at Vulcanized Rubber and Plastics in Morrisville, Pa., for 20 years and acquired patents in the rubber field. After moving to Butler in 1977, he worked in research and development for Castle Rubber, Butler, retiring in 1992.

Robert served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War as an ambulance driver.

He enjoyed flea markets and auctions, where he earned his nickname. Sellers would always say, “Butler Bob is buying.” Bob and his wife, Marianne, had owned Purper's Antiques in Butler

Bob was known for his skills in restoring furniture, old trunks and silver plated wind chimes.

Pop-Pop as he was known by his family, will be remembered for his big heart and life long stories

There wasn't a stray cat he wouldn't take care of.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Marianne “Babe” Bartis Purper, who died Oct. 5, 1993; his son, Robert Jr.; and one brother, Charles.

He is survived by one daughter, Kathy (Sam Baker) Hamel of Renfrew; four grandchildren, Daniel (Danielle) Willis of Renfrew, Robby Purper of Colorado, Ashley Purper of Levittown and Shannon (Matt) Riso of Philadelphia; and three great-grandchildren, Ian, Trinity and Jordon.

PURPER — As per the wishes of Robert “Butler Bob” L. Purper, who died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, there will be no services.

If desired memorial donations may be made to Butler County Humane Society, 1015 Evans City Rd., Renfrew, PA 16053

Additional information may be obtained at www.kinsey-volzfuneralhome.com.