Arthur F. Purol

June 24, 1932 — January 6, 2026

Dunkirk

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Arthur F. Purol, a man whose life was defined by service, devotion and an unwavering commitment to his family and community, passed away peacefully at his home on January 6, 2026 surrounded by his loved ones. He was 93 years old.

Born June 24, 1932 in Dunkirk, N.Y., he was the son of the late Anthony and Celia (Kawski) Purol. A lifelong resident of Dunkirk, Art graduated from Dunkirk High and IPG Industrial High Schools. He played semi-pro football for the Fredonia Orioles before entering the Army where he served during the Korean War.

Art was employed by Alco until joining the New York State Police in 1962, where he rose to the esteemed rank of Troop A Zone Sergeant. After retiring, Art was employed as a proctor for ASVAB, testing in numerous school districts in N.Y. and PA. He continued his government service working for the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department on Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake and as Court Officer for the Town of Dunkirk. His dedication to justice, order and kindness touched countless lives.

On October 4, 1952, Art married his first love, Blanche Kaleta. Together they built a home filled with laughter, love and joy for 49 years until Blanche passed in 2002. Art was blessed again with love when he married Joyce McArthur in 2006. Joyce became not only his devoted wife but his steadfast companion and partner in life.

Family was Art's greatest joy. He led by example - through his humility, generosity and quiet strength. Whether cheering from the sidelines for almost every sport his kids, grand-kids and great-grandkids participated in, sharing stories around a campfire or lending a hand to anyone that asked, he was a man you could always count on.

An avid outdoorsman, he found peace and enjoyment with nature while fishing and hunting, sharing the love of this hobby with generations to follow. He was a devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills, the Buffalo Sabres and the St. Louis Cardinals, following his teams with the same loyalty and heart that he gave to his family and community. Art was bestowed numerous awards but most special to him was receiving the Humanitarian Award in 1986. He received a Distinguished Service Award for 65 years of service from Murray Hose Co. #4 in 2018 and he was a longtime volunteer member of the East Town of Dunkirk Fire Department with the Fire Police.

In addition to his parents and siblings, Art is preceded in death by his first wife Blanche, his son Richard and infant daughter Barbara Lynn.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce (McArthur) Purol and his devoted children: the late Richard Purol (Bonnie Roman), Steven Purol, Carol Laemmerhirt (Roy) and Janice Ganey (Michael). He also lovingly remembered by his step-children: Arthur McArthur (Dana), Kelly and Randall McArthur.

His legacy lives on in his eight grand-children: Brian Purol (Kristen), Ben Laemmerhirt, Julie Sek (Michael), Karen Probst (Matthew), Nicole Strumsky (Eric), Tyler and Scott Purol, Kevin Ganey (Alex) and his great-grandchildren Jacob, Ella, Ian, Delilah, Michelle, Jared, Evan, Madalyn, Samantha, Mason, Rachel, Jacob, Amelia, Cooper, Ayla and Axton, as well as step-grandson Thomas Weeks III (Samantha) and their children Emily and Bentley.

Art was a lifelong member of the Blessed Mary Angela Roman Catholic Church of St. Hedwig where he found strength and peace in his faith that he prays will continue to guide and bless those who knew him.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home; 736 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 1 p.m. at the Blessed Mary Angela Roman Catholic Church of St. Hyacinth; 295 Lake Shore Drive E., Dunkirk, NY. Military Honors will be held by the Dunkirk Joint Veteran Council immediately following the Mass. Entombment will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Art's memory to either the East Town of Dunkirk Fire Dept or St. Jude (stjude.org)

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