Life was an adventure for Cheryl!
She was known for telling stories and sharing about her myriad of adventures which endeared her to many and generated an abundance of friendships.
Cheryl Sylvia Purpur was born July 12, 1953 in Edmonton, Alberta, and passed away August 28, 2024. She is survived by her brothers John and Larry. She was predeceased by her mother, Gunnvor Johanne Purpur, her father, Alfred Philip Purpur, her brother, Ron, her sister, Nadine Meikle, and most recently, her brother, Grant.
Cheryl grew up in a lively and busy home with her parents and five siblings. Her first adventures happened both at home and at her dad’s workplace. While other children may have been at pre-school, Cheryl recounted going to work with her dad at the family grocery business in Belgravia and visiting her grandparents who lived across from the store. These early years of meeting people and being in the midst of a thriving business helped form her character. A family friend remembered her as a lively and bubbly young person.
Cheryl loved to tell stories about the activities and dynamism in the Purpur home in Bonnie Doon; there were frequent gatherings of family, neighbours and friends, centred around fun and food, with pranks thrown in. Cheryl got her flair and fashion sense from her mom, and her father passed on a work ethic and community focus that carried her through her university studies, years of dance and performance, career teaching elementary school, dog breeding business and a variety of volunteer work.
After a long and rewarding but challenging career in the field of education and teaching, Cheryl took leave after a serious car accident. Her recovery was long, but her dogs were good companions during that period. Cheryl was a dog-mom to many Soft Coated Wheaton Terriers that she lovingly raised and proudly showed in competitions. Her last companion dogs were Scarlet and Murphey, with Scarlet accompanying her the longest.
After her retirement, Cheryl planned group trips to her favourite spot, Lake O’Hara. It was one of her happy places.
Cheryl is missed by those close to her. May she rest in peace.
A graveside service will take place at
South Haven cemetery,
5004 Meridian St NW
Edmonton AB T6P 1R
December 6, 2024 at 1:00pm.
Thank you Norma-Anne for this lovely obituary. I only met Cheryl a couple of times, both of which were in the warmth of your home, kindness and hospitality.
Dear Cheryl, may your soul rest in peace. May you continue to bless your family and friends from above in your new home. May God’s loving arms be wrapped around you in his eternal love.
Cheryl, you’ve left a hole. The world is not the same without you. You were a rock, a guide, a beautiful soul.