John J. Purpuro passed away at his home December 2, 2020 after a brief illness.
John was born in Hackensack New Jersey February 10, 1954 to Joseph and Helene Purpuro. He graduated from Saddle Brook High in 1972.
John was very proud of his 42 years of military service. He served in the Army National Guard as an Enlisted Soldier, Officer, and Warrant Officer. Starting his career in New Jersey, he transferred to the Montana Army National Guard where he culminated his career as the Command Chief Warrant Officer for the State. He loved attending local, state and national military functions. He volunteered as the secretary for the local Warrant Officer Chapter, the Montana National Guard Service Club, Last Chance Hand Gunners, and the Army Retired representative on the Board of Directors for the Montana National Guard Association.
John (aka John F) found a new lease on life when he met Teresa and moved to Montana in 1999. He made many new friends and truly loved living in Big Sky country. John’s many interests were RVing with friends, attending NASCAR races in the fall and gun, guns, guns and he was very proud to be a lifetime member of the NRA. He never hesitated to tell his friends back in New Jersey to “come visit but don’t stay”.
Surviving are his wife of 20 years Teresa, daughter Katie (Jordan) Rosen, daughter Sarah (Geoff) Snyder, granddaughter Madison, son Christopher Snyder, granddaughter Noah, and sister Karen Johnson.
A Graveside Service with Military Honors is scheduled for 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Ft. Harrison followed by a reception where we can all gather at the Service Club and hoist a beer to John. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of John.
Service Schedule
Burial with Military Honors
3:00 p.m.
Wednesday May 12, 2021
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
1900 Williams Ave.
Ft. Harrison, Montana 59636
Social Gathering
Following the burial
Wednesday May 12, 2021
Service Club
ON BASE
Ft. Harrison, Montana 59636
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Anderson/Atkins family says
So sorry to hear this news. Haven’t been in touch for many years but our families spent so many good times together. RIP, and our deepest sympathies to the family.
CW3 Nick Conway, MTARNG (Ret) says
I’m stunned to hear of the loss of a man who was a pivotal MTARNG warrant officer career mentor. John was a leader at many levels and will truly be missed. My condolences to Teresa and John’s extended family.
Terri david says
Terri David CW4 (retired thank you Jesus)
I could not believe when I heard the news on John’s passing. John was a true leader , he was the bonding glue for all Warrant Officers. He was one of the most influential leaders to me ,through my career. I jokingly dubbed him the Super Chief, and for me that was the actual reality. I pray for Teresa and his family as they try to go forward. Gods Speed.
Lloyd Heffernan says
I knew John through Last Chance Handgunners. I enjoyed his company on every shoot he attended. John always had good humor and was a good sportsman. I will miss talking with him at the shoots. It seems odd that he would have passed as we are the same age. Prayers for all of his family, may they have peace and understanding through their loss.
Jon Jackson says
I was shocked and saddened to hear this. I always had the highest respect for John. “T”, my sincerest condolences.
Wayne A. Wolverton says
I was very sad to hear this news. I haven’t kept in touch with John over the years, but our families spent a lot of time together growing up (he was my second cousin, 2 years older). He was extremely proud of his service to our nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with Teresa and his loved ones.
The Cassidy's says
We are stunned and shocked and at a loss. John was an amazing leader and champion for Soldiers. T
His loss leaves a void that will never be filled.
Daw Murphy says
Teresa, I am so sorry for your loss. This year has been the worst ever. Know I am here if uou need snything.
Jo Lacey-Wood says
Teresa and family,
My deepest condolences. John was a great man, may the memories you share with him bring you warmth and joy.
Kevinpigman says
Teresa. So sorry John was always highly respected in the Montana National Gaurd. And I was proud to serve with him.
SFC Kevin Pigman
Patty Wood says
Teresa, I am heartbroken to hear of John’s sudden passing. He was always full of life, energy and passion. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. 🙏❤️
Linda Work says
So sorry for the loss of my cousin John. John, his sister, my sister and I were always together for many years when we were young and glad to have many happy memories. Teresa our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your family.
Jim Hogan says
Dear Teresa and all Purpuro Family, I am shocked and saddened to see the loss of your beloved John. My thoughts and prayers go out to all as he rests in peace.
Jennifer Breitbach says
We are so sorry for your sudden and unexpected loss. John was an outstanding man, Soldier and man.
Wade Van Gilder says
Teresa: Our prayers are heading your way. I am speechless after hearing this shocking news. John was a fantastic person in so many ways. Lean on your many friends if you must (we are here for you)…may he rest in peace!
David Lewis says
My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. I will surely miss John, he was a great Soldier, Man and Mentor. He was truly a lovable and kind person.
Elizabeth and Lonnie Cook says
I know that many have already commented on John’s leadership skills, but it is worth repeating. He brought Warrant Officers together across specialities and made us feel like family. Lonnie and I are deeply saddened to hear of his passing. We are better people for having known him. Teresa, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
David (ugh) Lee says
Teresa, I am so sorry. You and John have been such good friends. I am in shock.
Bill Unger says
What a terrible loss. Rest In Peace brother.
Keith & Amy Kelly says
Words can not express our shock and sorrow. Teresa you and John have always been such solid members of the community, and such good friends and mentors. John was always respected as a professional. He served in every organization he joined and made them each better.
You are in our thoughts and prayers, may you find peace and healing.
Kris Mayhew says
A true leader, mentor, but most of all friend. They broke the mold with you Chief! I can’t say thank you enough for the courage you and Ms. P installed in me and countless others throughout both of your careers. There is a massive hole that cannot be ever filled with your loss. Rest easy Chief and I hope to see you again my friend.
Tim says
So truly sorry for your loss, I am stunned and shocked. He will be missed. I have always looks forward to his help and guidance.
Mallory McDowell says
So sorry Teresa, John gave me my first full time job in the guard and I’ll always remember the card games. He was a great guy and I’m sorry for your loss 💕
Fred Lechner says
Teresa so sorry for your loss our thoughts are with you and yours. A Great man!!
Joe Yetter says
Teresa, I’m deeply sorry to hear of Johns sudden passing. Our thoughts are with you and your family. John was a soldiers soldier, and he will be missed by many.
Julie and Rick Massaro says
Teresa, our prayers are going out to you and the rest of John’s family. Rick had the utmost respect for John when they worked together. You two were such an inspiration to those around you. Please take care of yourself. Our love to you.
Amy Ramer says
You all are in our thoughts and prayers. One of the best I’ve had the pleasure to serve with. John you will be forever loved.
Melissa and Alan Loy says
We are shocked and heartbroken over your loss!! We so enjoyed being around you guys, John truly brought life to any gathering!! He was an amazing Soldier and also made such an impact in the MTARNG. People who only knew John a short time were touched by his charisma and humor!! We will miss him so much!! Teresa you are family and so sorry your partner in crime left us far too soon!!
Everett and LeAnn Munson says
Teresa
We are sorry to here about John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John was one of the good ones and I am glad I had a chance to work with him. He will be missed.
John G. says
My condolences to the family.
I had the honor working for, and beside John for quite a bit of my career. A great mentor, with a wealth of knowledge. You could always count on John to insert a “F” bomb when the situation required it.
John was true Patriot and a fierce defender of our Constitution. I feel fortunate to call him a friend and walk in his shadow. John’s
passing is a great loss to all of us.
Much respect to a man I truly admired.
RIP…my friend we’ll cross paths again someday.
Pat Nugent says
Team MTARNG: we all know the great man John (F) (and we know what that means…) Purpuro was. A Soldier who said what he meant, a man who followed through on his word, and a friend who kept his promise. If only we all could do that…. I am so proud to call him a friend and so sorry to see him gone. Should we all strive to meet his impact upon the force and us a people.
Candice Griffith & Steve Martinka says
Teresa and family. Steve and I are both heartbroken in learning about the loss of John. He will be greatly missed at our YNOTs and the range. John had a heart of gold, a laugh that was contagious and a personality that put you at ease. It was a true honor to have gotten the chance to serve with him for many years and become friends while serving and after retirement. Steve and I will both cherish the times and many wonderful times we had with John. We love you Teresa and we are here for you always!! Big hugs and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
Nancy Primo says
Teresa, Sarah, and Christopher. I was so shocked to here about Johns passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. If you need anything Teresa I am here for you any time. Sending prayers for all of you.
Danita Pollard says
Oh, so sorry for your loss. May you find peace in knowing he is with our lord
Tony and Cindy Blanton says
Teresa, I am so sad to here of John’s passing, he was a great friend and Soldier. He was an inspiration to everyone that knew him. What an exceptional person he was. RIP CW5 Purpuro! Salute!
Richard J Yetter says
Teresa, like many I am deeply saddened to learn of John’s passing. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 says to rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and to give thanks. I rejoice for the great team you and John were and the value that you added to everyone around John and you. Prayers for sure. And I am thankful for knowing John.
Howard Eich says
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a good man and MTARNG brother. Sorry for your loss Teresa
Tommy Clement says
So sad to hear about the Chiefs passing!! He was one of the most positive people I have ever meet and always had a smile!! Praying for you in this time!!
Kyle Herman says
Sorry Teresa for your loss! We will be praying for you and your family. You both were instrumental in getting my warrant career off the ground. Please keep sharing pictures of your travels! You guys set the standard for a happy retirement!
Caressa says
Theresa and Family,
I am so saddened and so sorry to hear of the loss of John. Such a great mentor and extremely passionate about the military. Sending my prayers and love to your family.
Thomas Luhrsen says
Teresa and family, I mourn the loss of John. He always had a smile on his face and will truly be missed. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie Vacura says
Teresa, I’m so sorry. I can’t imagine your passion and shock. You and yours are definitely in my prayers.
Jay & Kati Hellbusch says
Teresa, Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. John was a thoughtful, caring and hilarious man that would give the shirt off his back for a friend. He will be so very missed by all who knew him.
James Grigsby says
Theresa sorry for your loss John was a good person and he will be missed praying for you and your family.
Traci and Pete says
Teresa and family,
Pete and my hearts go out to you. What a good man and life spirit to all of us who knew him professionally and personally. His smile, full of life attitude and honesty was a gift to all of us. His laugh, Jersey draw and his smile resinates with all who knew him. May you heal and find comfort in all who love and care for you as a couple, as friends and a soldier. Peace, hugs and prayers to you. Pete and Traci Hronek
Susan L Hawthorne says
Teresa, Adel and I send our condolences for the loss of the love of your life. I remember the first time I meet John and I thought, was was T thinking? A Jersey dude? But once you meet John you realized what everyone else has already stated. I never know him to mix words, and not do the right thing. He gave his soul to the MTARNG and the Soldiers he served with. But first and far most the love he had for Teresa and her family is an understatement. They worked together to make the MTARNG warranty officer corps the best it could be and a driving force to keep the service club running. We send virtual hugs your way T.
Bill and Noel Cooper says
Teresa,
Noel and I are shocked t hear of John’s passing. Some of the best years of my life were spent sharing an office wall with John and seeing him most every day. Our hearts go out to you.
Greg and Wendy Olson says
Teresa, our deepest condolences for you and your family. We are saddened by John’s passing. He was such an amazing man with such passion for life. We have such great memories of him and may he Rest In Peace. God bless.
Amanda Sell says
So sorry for the sudden loss of such a wonderful person. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
John P Joyce says
Teresa, So sorry to hear about John. He was a good friend and mentor. Keep your head up and let me know if you need anything. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Terry and Jim White says
Teresa, Jim and I are shocked and saddened to hear of John’s passing. The annual AMM of the USAWOA will miss his presence.
Aaron Pugh says
I’m so sorry for your loss. I knew John through competitive shooting and the gun club. John was truly one of a kind and a true leader in every way. He was always eager to help, eager to get involved, and his heart was always in the right place. I’ll miss our humorous bantering on Facebook and always giving him a hard time because he was from Jersey. John was truly one of a kind and will be missed by all. God bless
Bill Acquafredda says
I am so sorry I was a friend of John for many years, John was a big oldies fan hunter fishermen all around a great friend. This is a tragic loss may god bless his family and they are in our prayers for those that know John Taylor ham on a roll with onion little info
Guy Rainville says
Teresa,
I am truly saddened by Johns passing. For any of us that knew John, he will be sincerely missed.
Bill Luckenbill says
I knew John for many years in the New Jersey Guard and beyond. When he first transferred to Montana, he came east to attend the annual Battle of the Bulge event in Ft. Indiantown Gap PA and we participated in the same unit as always. I had the opportunity to talk with Theresa on his phone from the GAP and recognized her sense of humor to which John was attracted . He will be missed . I also was enlisted, an officer and a warrant officer so we shared career paths.
Bill Luckenbill says
I knew John for many years as a full timer in the Jersey Guard and beyond. When he was first transferred to Montana, he came East to attend and participate in the annual “Battle of the Bulge” held at Ft. Indiantown Gap PA. We participated in the same unit as always. I had the opportunity to talk with Theresa on his phone and could easily recognize her sense of humor which John was attracted to. He will be missed by all who knew him in the 104th and Montana Guard. I also was enlisted, an officer and a warrant officer so we shared common career paths.
caren da silva says
Deepest sympathy to John’s family …went to Saddle Brook High School class 1972 with John …rip
Caren Da Silva
Woodland Park NJ
Valerie valiant says
Theresa so sorry to hear the news about John, you are in our prayers and your family it was a shock to get the message about him passing away , if you need anything let us know.
Valerie and Roy 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Brad and Sandy Nelson says
Teresa- Just heard the sad news this morning. Words can’t express Sandy’s and my sadness when we heard. As is evidenced from the many friends you and John have, know that the NG family will always be here for you and your family.
Carla Lott says
My most heartfelt and sincere condolences for your family. John was an amazing man, with a kind heart and quick smile. He will be missed.
Karla says
John will be Missed, Gods Speed Brother. He was a Great person!! I love you Teresa and if I can do anything please let me know!
curtis ethington says
John will be missed, I knew he would always be standing in the corner of rite when it came to fight time, he was there for me more than once. My prayers go out to Teresa and family, may God bless you.
Teresa Burgess, CW5 (R), Washington NG says
John was one of my first CCWO mentors. He was a wonderful man. He knew how to have fun and was sure to include everyone round him. I have enjoyed following the family on Facebook and will miss him. I will be sure to raise a Yuengling in his honor!
CW5 (Ret) Rhea Pruett says
Teresa I’m so sorry for your loss and the loss to the Warrant Officer community. I enjoyed working with John as part of the CCWO team in the Army National Guard. His support and sense of humor were wonderful. Thank you for your support too. You were a great team. Blessings and love to you and your family. Hugs and prayers. ❤️
Jim Carney says
Teresa and family, so very sorry for your loss, John was one of the good guys and will be greatly missed.
tommyO' CW5(R) says
Teresa: We are in Boston. Just heard today. Elizabeth and I are heartbroken. May he find the peace we all hope for when we leave this place. I am looking forward to being in a future formation with my brother in a better place. God Bless and Hold You in the palm of his hands.
CW5 (Ret) Richard Ernest says
Teresa, I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time. John will be remembered as always being there to provide input and assistance on Soldier initiatives, with you by his side for support. God bless
CW5 (Retired) Phyllis Wilson says
John was a great mentor and coach to me. He was always kind, patient, and humble. I will miss his quiet humor and easy smile.
CW5 (Ret) Mike Zagyva says
Teresa, I just read today of John’s passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I truly enjoyed working with John. God Bless
Mac says
So sorry to hear today of John’s passing. He will be missed.
Col (Ret) Steve and Melissa Mehring says
John was a great leader, tireless volunteer, mentor to many and friend to all. He served his community, his state, and his country. He was a partner with Steve and I for over 20 years in the MTNGA volunteering on the Board of Directors and as the Army Rep to NGAUS. He was always the first to arrive and offer assistance and the last to leave (usually carrying something out to my car). Together with his amazing and talented wife, CW4 (ret) Teresa Purpuro, he inspired many, including us.
Admittedly, he was a tobacco chewing, beer drinking, gun carrying, man’s man and a Republican to boot! He was the opposite of me and yet we grew to be great friends. I experienced some of the greatest moments of my life with John and Teresa. Together we visited 18 states, some twice (HI and MD), met and heard four Presidents speak, numerous Joint Chiefs including Gen (Ret) Colin Powell, and Gen (Ret) Martin Dempsey. We met Nascar drivers, and Indy car drivers including Dan Wheldon prior to his death. We experienced the best in entertainment, music and Hollywood (after all we met Tom Selleck). We had somber moments visiting the WWII Memorial in D.C. and Pearl Harbor. We had joyful moments attending the Grand Ole Opry listening to Wynonna and Trace Adkins. All of us wept at the original song Trace sang about service to our country. John was a patriot who loved and served his country with distinction, so this music had great meaning to him.
He lived life to the fullest and while he drank beer, we drank wine. We ate raw oysters and he said, “Yuck, I’ll have something fried.” Together, the four of us ate in nice restaurants, dive bars, on boats and in high rises. We were competitive, disagreed on many subjects, and laughed constantly. We hugged when we met and when we parted. John was a kind hearted, loving soul and it is hard to say “Goodbye.” We will miss him. We loved him. He was an amazing family man and friend. He lived his life with exuberance and joy and for all of this we are grateful. We are blessed to have shared time on this earth with him. God Bless Teresa and his family. God Speed Chief.
CW5(R) Jill Graham says
Teresa, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. John was one of my favorite CCWOs :). He always had a smile and a story to tell me before we talked business. I’d ask him if he checked with his 420A before coming to me 😉 ❤️ He will be missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelly Morris says
Teresa, I am very saddened to hear of your loss. I am honored to have served with both of you!
Jarrett Graber says
Teresa, I hope you are doing as good as you can be in a time like this. They say time heals all wounds, yet it is extremely hard to imagine this wound being healed. You and John both had great impacts on my career in the Military, and in life, i always saw John as almost a father figure. Whitney and I are so sorry Teresa, and so grateful for having been able to know John!
Rest In Peace Chief.
Rev. Marlow Carrels says
Rest in peace Chief. Teresa and family our prayers ascend for you. May the peace of Christ bring you comfort at this time.
CW3 (Ret) Phil Howard says
Montana has lost a treasure. I will always appreciate John’s advice and mentoring. God bless Teresa and their family.
Tami Tjaden Gunlock says
Teresa, SO sad to hear of John’s passing. He will be so missed. You are in our thoughts and hearts.
Dan and Sandi Benson says
Teresa, We are so sorry to read this news. We had some good laughs together on the flights and playing… May you find a little more comfort knowing you are in our thoughts at this time…
Orlan and Trina Strom says
Teresa, it is with a heavy heart to hear the lost of your loved one. Not only was John your husband and friend, but he was a tremendous friend to myself and many others. He was always there when needed and went the extra mile when he didn’t have to. Whenever someone met John he left an everlasting kind and knowledgeable impression, the type of person you always to be around. There are not enough wonderful and kind words to describe John. I am very grateful for the awesome memories and times that I have and had with him. John will always be remembered in our hearts and minds.
Chloe Katsilas says
Teresa and family – I am so deeply saddened and sorry for your loss. One of the highlights of my days working at the fort were playing cards with JPurp and company and arguing over politics. I always enjoyed seeing you both at the St. Patty’s lunches as well and out and about through town. You are all in my thoughts.
Love,
Chloe
Sam Worman says
I met John in the early 2000’s when he had just moved to Helena for the love of his life Teresa. John will forever be the shining example of what a warrant officer could possibly aspire to be. Truly an inspiration. Thank you John for the wisdom you offered us junior Warrant Officers. Sincerely, Sam Worman
Lori Hampa-Chamberlin says
Teresa and Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing and Dan and I send our condolences for your great loss. John was a straight shooter, telling as he saw it, and I respected him for that characteristic. What a truly difficult year 2020 turned out to be. You are in my prayers and as so many other friends expressed, should you need anything we are here for you.
Blessings,
Lori and Dan Hampa-Chamberlin