James E. Purrell passed away unexpectedly on October 10, 2010. He was on a deer hunting trip, with his boots on, and with his two favorite boys... son Shawn and grandson Mason.

Jim was born in Hawthorne, Nevada and graduated from MCHS in 1961. He was proud to be a second generation Nevadan and was a rancher in Yerington. He was a bigger than life "real deal" cowboy that left no one wondering what he was thinking. He was a great storyteller and could make any situation funny. Some of his favorite things in life were to be involved in his grandkids' activities, hunting, team roping, road trips and making (and sharing) his own wine, salami and prosciutto.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Earlene Purrell. He is survived by his wife Karen, son Shawn (Vickie) Purrell, daughter Kerry (Craig) Stevens, sister Bonnie (Garry) Jackson, brother-in-law Pat (Jackie) Tracy, grandchildren Annie and Allie Purrell and Mason Frey, nieces and nephew Lori (Derek) Horton and son Shane, Dana Jackson, and Craig Jackson and daughter Carlee. He is also survived by a lot of extended family and friends too numerous to mention.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 11:30 am at Valley View Cemetery, with a celebration of Jim's life at the Casino West Convention Center at 12:30.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Yerington High School Rodeo Club, P.O. Box 421 Yerington, Nevada 89447.

Family and Friends may sign his online guest book at www.FRFH.net.

Arrangements are under the direction of Freitas Rupracht Funeral Home, Yerington (775) 463-2911.