Clarence Puranen

REEDSBURG, Wis. - Clarence Puranen, age 90, formerly of Reedsburg, living in Fitchburg under the care of his daughter Chris and son-in-law Tim, entered his heavenly home Feb. 13, 2023.

Clarence was born in Ironwood, Michigan, on Sept. 17, 1932. In 1957, he was united in marriage to Katherine (Kate) Oravecz in Wakefield, Michigan.

Clarence was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Reedsburg. He served on many of the various boards there and was also involved in the Stephen Ministry. He was a Korean War veteran, worked and retired from Grede Foundries in 1995. He had a passion for coaching girls basketball. They always called him "Coach P." He was also very active with the Special Olympics and The Right to Life. He enjoyed fishing with his wife, son and grandchildren.

He is survived by two daughters, Diane (Walter) Wise of Elkhart, Indiana, and Christine (Tim) Ryan of Fitchburg; and son, Robert (Sally) Puranen of Muskego. He is also survived by three granddaughters, one grandson, five great-granddaughters, three great-grandsons, one great-great-grandson and one great-great-granddaughter due in March, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, three brothers and seven sisters.

A celebration of life for Clarence was held Friday, March 3, at Grasse Funeral Home in Reedsburg. Visitation was held from 3 to 5 p.m., followed by a short service with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Peter's Lutheran Church or the Reedsburg Food Pantry would be appreciated. Online condolences may be made at grassefs.com.