POWNAL — Robert Dudley Purinton, 87, of Pownal, died Friday April 5, 2013 at Maine Medical Center.

He was born on June 13, 1925 in Augusta, a son of George D. and Anna J. Laughlin Purinton. Robert attended elementary school in Gray and Pennell Institute in Gray.

Robert, along with many of his classmates, joined the Army and served during World War II. Following the war, he returned to Maine. In 1956, he began working as a brick mason. During the early part of his career, he worked in several east coast states. Since 1960, he worked mostly in Maine. For many years. he operated R.D. Purinton and Son. He retired at the age of 79.

Robert was a member of Hiram Lodge No. 180 AF & AM of South Portland. He earned the distinction of attaining the status of a 33rd Degree Mason. He was a former member of the Shrine. Robert was also a member of American Legion Post No. 83 of Freeport. He enjoyed the outdoors and was a proud member of the National Rifleman’s Association. Robert was an avid hunter, fisherman and trapper. He was proud of his lifetime trapper’s license.

Robert was predeceased by his parents and his wife Ruth (Catlin) Purinton in 2009.

Survivors include two sons, George Carlton Purinton of New Gloucester and Robert Dean Purinton of Durham; a sister, Shirley Grover of Portland; a brother, Clifford Purinton of Sweden; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Tuesday, April 16, at 2 p.m. at First Parish Congregational Church of Pownal, Hallowell and Elmwood Roads (Route 9) Pownal. Military rites will be rendered at the church. Burial will be held at Sapling Hill Cemetery in Gorham.

Arrangements are being handled by Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 172 State Street, Portland. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ctcrawford.com.

Donations in his memory may be sent to: The Shriners Burn Center, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114.