Darrel Ray Purkerson: July 2, 1938 – September 9, 2026

ST. HELENS- Darrel Ray Purkerson, 88, of St. Helens, Oregon, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026.  Darrel was born in Eugene, Oregon, on July 2,1938 to parents Lorus & Rose Purkerson.  He grew up on the family farm just outside of Junction City Oregon until he graduated from Junction City HS in 1956.

Darrel graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Pharmacy, in 1963.  While at OSU, Darrel met Helen Suter and they were married shortly after graduation in December,1963.

Darrel worked for several pharmacies in Eugene and Hillsboro.  In 1968 he moved the family to St. Helens, where he continued his pharmacy practice.  Always an ambitious entrepreneur, Darrel recognized the opportunity and built his own business, Professional Pharmacy, in 1972, and worked there until his retirement in 1996.

Darrel was well known and respected in the community.  Outside of work he always kept busy with a variety of activities including travel, hunting & fishing, boating, gardening, home improvement projects, and maintaining his rental properties.  He was also a big advocate of Oregon State University where he generously donated to and supported the OSU College of Pharmacy over the years and was a mentor to many young, upcoming pharmacy students.

Darrel is survived by his wife Helen of 62 years, son David (Susan) Purkerson and daughter Dana (Keith) Hammer, grandchildren Nolan, Delaney, and Karina, and brother L. Lee Purkerson.

An upcoming “Celebration of Life” memorial is planned for a later date.