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Jim Purchio
Jan. 26, 1952 - Sept. 9, 2018
Hayward
James "Jim" John Purchio, devoted father, husband, and firefighter, passed away on September 9. He was 66 years old.
Jim was born on January 26, 1952 in Hayward. He was the oldest of six siblings. A 1970 graduate of Hayward High, Jim was an offensive lineman for the Farmers football team. In 1979, he began a 27-year career with the Alameda County Fire Department. Jim loved to help others, whether it was people he knew or complete strangers. His career would see him respond to many fires locally, as well as fires up and down California and across the Western United States.
In retirement, Jim stayed busy by helping to coach his daughter Angie's high school softball team. He also helped with different events for the Hayward High Marching Band, which his daughter Jessica was a part of. An avid fan of Bay Area sports teams, Jim thoroughly enjoyed watching the Giants and Warriors win championships over the past eight years.
Jim's greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. His wife and children fondly remember holiday gatherings, trips near and far in the RV, and visiting family across the country. In 2012 Jim was blessed with a grandson, Aiden, whom he loved dearly. Jim was given many titles over the years, but Papa was perhaps the one that made him smile the most.
Jim is survived by his wife, Carleen, his son, Garrett, daughters Jessica and Angie, grandson Aiden Gutierrez, sisters Patricia White and Mary Caldwell, brothers John Purchio and Nick Purchio, nieces, nephews, family, and close friends.
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Steve Schley
This is especially sad for me. I attended not only HH with Jim but 9 years at All Saints. Jim and I were a lot alike. Both had Hayward Cops for fathers, both had about the same body type in 7th and 8th grade. We vied to be the heaviest in class but I beat him out. :) We both were altar boys and All Saint patrol boys together.
He lived close to me and I visited him at his home many times. He was a good big brother and a dutiful son. His Dad took me with them to a banquet for then Governor Brown and it stays with me today. I started playing football my freshmen year because he convinced me to do it with him. I had no clue about the game so just followed his lead. We both became police explorers but neither of us saw it through. I remember when he told me he was going to be a fireman instead of a cop. It was a great choice and he made a great life from it. Later he again lived near me and my son and his son Garrett became friends.
Seems like we were destined to continue our links. The last time I talked to him he was happily retired and having a good time with his wife Carleen and his family.
I know that this is all the part of the circle of life, but I just wish his circle was a lot wider.
Jerry Bright
I had the pleasure of knowing Jim in Highschool. I can honestly say he was one the great guys growing up as a kid. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May you rest in peace Jimmy.
Love Jerry Bright
Joseph Worthington
Jimmy and I were close at one time but over the years we lost contact. May you rest in peace my dear friend.