WEST ROXBURY - Brian Charles Purinton passed away on Monday, Oct. 31, in the V.A. Hospital in West Roxbury, MA shortly after his family visited.Brian, son of Charles L. and Ruth Marie (Elmer) Purinton, was born on December 2, 1946.Brian spent the majority of his life in Charlemont, attending the schools and graduating from Charlemont High School in June 1965.  During his high school days he played on the basketball and baseball teams.He enlisted in the Navy Seabees in September 1965 and served two tours of duty in Vietnam; he was awarded the Purple Heart.  He was honorably discharged in June 1969.Brian began employment with New England Power Company and then transferred to Massachusetts Electric Company in North Adams where he was a lineman and then a troubleman.  He finished his employment with National Grid as a troubleman retiring in 2004.Brian was a member of the Charlemont Fire Department for many years and was also a part-time police officer. He was a member of the Charlemont Veterans Association, which was responsible for erecting the Charlemont Korean/VietNam War Memorial.  He was a member of the Ashfield American Legion, Shelburne Falls VFW, the Disabled Veterans of America, Navy Seabee Veterans of America and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.He was a social, outgoing person who enjoyed his vehicles and visiting around town; he was always willing to help out.  "Papa" was often seen in the company of his granddaughter Jennifer who was his best helper.Brian is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Gloria Jean (Coutu) Purinton; his son Joseph W. of Charlemont; his daughter Michelle M. Purinton of Bethel, Maine, and his granddaughter Jennifer Lynn Purinton of Charlemont.  He is also survived by his brother-in-law Steven W. Coutu of Colrain, his sister-in-law Valerie G. Wheeler and brother-in-law Butch Wheeler of West Halifax, VT; two nieces and one nephew.A graveside service with  military honors will be held Sunday, Nov. 6, at 2:00 pm at the Center Cemetery in Buckland.There are no calling hours.In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Charlemont Fire Department, P.O. Box 264,  Charlemont, MA 01339 or to the Dept. of Massachusetts, Room 546, State House, Boston, MA 02133. Please note "Brian C. Purinton" with your donation.To send a condolence visit smithkelleherfuneralhome.com