Charles J. Purta, 79, of Dupont, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 19, 2022, at home. He and his loving wife, Elaine Porzucek Purta, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on July 2, 2021.

Born in Scranton, he was a son of the late John and Tillie Gaus Purta. Charles was a graduate of Duryea High School, Class of 1960. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army and also served with the National Guard. Prior to retirement, he was Supervisor of Operations at the Wilkes-Barre - Scranton International Airport.

Charles was a member of Our Lady of the Eucharist Parish, Pittston. He was also a member of the VFW Post 4909 and Polish American Citizens Club, both of Dupont.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Charlene Bigelow and husband, Mark; Cheryl Gilvary and husband, Patrick; grandchildren, Nicholas, Joshua and Alexandra Bigelow; sister, Helen Bulford; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by sisters, Joanne O'Meara and Diane Zuraski.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, May 28, 2022, in Our Lady of the Eucharist Parish, 535 North Main Street, Pittston, to be celebrated by Fr. Paul McDonnell, O.S.J.. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family in St. Mary's Assumption Cemetery, Hughestown.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects at the church, from 9:30A.M. until the time of the mass.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street Pittston (Port Griffith).