Ian Purdy

On 27th February 2025, peacefully in hospital, Ian, aged 69 years of Macclesfield. Father of Angela and son in law Tim, loving grandad of Jack and Hannah, brother of Alan, Alison, Stewart, Andy and the late Geoff. Ian began work as an apprentice in painting and decorating alongside his lifelong friends Mick Gallagher and John Taylor, at Wilfred Lord in Rochdale. Following his apprenticeship, he became a self-employed painter and decorator alongside joining the family Purdy Ice Cream business in and around the Rochdale area. Following his move to Cheshire he became a highly sought-after, self-employed painter and decorator in the Alderley Edge area, supported by his brothers in arms, Mick and John. A lifelong supporter of Rochdale Football Club, Ian travelled across the country to cheer on his team. He was passionate about the game amongst many other sports. In his younger years he could be described as a bon viveur, full of life and surrounded by his brothers and sister. He had a love for fishing, spending hours teaching his grandson, Jack, not only how to fish but also to pass on his appreciation of the countryside and wildlife. This passion for wildlife was imbued further with Hannah his granddaughter when would take her and Jack to numerous wildlife parks, zoos, and including bird of prey and otter sanctuaries. The three of them spent a lot of time together during school holidays and weekends. Jack and Hannah, unsurprisingly remember in particular the times he would take them on “spending extravaganzas”, where he would ‘spoil’ them by lavishing them with goodies. He was also an avid reader, particularly enjoying sports biographies, and also enjoyed a good drama on TV. As the years passed, Ian became more reserved, preferring the quiet comforts of home, his books, and his television, alongside his beloved dogs the Harrys and latterly Zimmy. Though his presence will be deeply missed, there are many happy memories to recall. Family flowers only please, donations are being gratefully received in memory of Ian on behalf of PDSA. To make a donation, please click the blue donate button at the bottom of this page. A donation box will also be available at the service. Please feel free to leave a message for Ian’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

Jacqueline
So saddened that such a special piece of your family is missing, taken away far too soon. Remembered with fondness from childhood days, hoping special memories keep him very much ‘with’ you xxx.

Clair and Lee Wilkinson
So sorry for your loss, such a lovely tribute of memories and his kind and generous personality shines through in both his daughter Angela and grandchildren Jack and Hannah xx

Margaret Taylor
R.I.P. Ian, sending love and condolences to all the family xx

Kristina Loewen
My heart goes out to you and your family, Angela. Sending you all so much love as you remember your Father and Grandfather. He sounds like he was a very generous and loving man, traits that are so obviously reflected in his family members. I’m here any time.

Alison Purdy
Rest in peace Ian. It was a privilege to have you as one of my brothers. Funny, caring and a loyal family man. You will be surely missed by us all xx

Mick Gallagher
R.I.P. Ian. Myself and John have been friends and work colleagues for over fifty years. In that time, we have watched your beloved Dale all over the country. I have great memories of the things we’ve done and will never forget. See you on the other side. God bless.

Dale and Lee
Rest in peace Uncle Ian, thank you for all the good times and happy memories x