Obituary of Steven Paul Purtz

Steve was born in Sarasota, Florida on January 2, 1958 to William Paul Purtz and Elizabeth Ann (née Rooney) Purtz. Throughout the battle with his health, Steve’s light continued to shine brightly and his faith was unwavering. On April 8th at 10pm, Steve transitioned peacefully across the eternal threshold into the Presence of Jesus, his King—who he knew, loved and served. His wife Mare was at his side and his children Jesse, Hilary, and Rachel expressed their love to him via speaker phone. Steve is survived by his wife Mare Purtz , his children: son David, son Jesse and his fiancé Amanda, Daughters: Hilary Purtz and Rachel Santos and son in law Michael Santos. Also their mother, Debra Hill Purtz. Granddaughters: Gabriella Vicente, Nya Vicente, and Mia Vicente. Siblings: Richard Purtz, Michael Purtz, Karen La Porte and brother-in-law Tom Lenaghen. He was preceded in death by his brother Peter Purtz, and his parents. Steve loved being a Dad and was so proud of his children. He enjoyed being Papa to his granddaughters who he knew were amazing and uncle to his much loved nieces and nephews. Steve worked for Samaritans Purse for 10 years as both a volunteer and staff member. He was a first responder on the DART Team (Disaster Assistance Response Team). Steve brought comfort and provision to hearts in crisis serving in New Orleans, Texas, New York, Japan, Turkey, Greece and most recently in the Caribbean Island Nation of Dominica. Steve was a member of the Antioch Fort Worth Church. He loved his Antioch Community serving faithfully as an usher and as a part of the intercessory team. He was also was an active member of a life group. Steve lived his life as a Divine Ambassador delivering the message: God SO Loved that he sent His Son Jesus to have a personal relationship with each of us. His hope was that each person he ever met would enter into their own personal love story with Jesus. The pulse of Steve’s heart was to “Go for God” He had a heart to go to the Nations. It was Steve and Mare’s intention to mobilize and fulfill that call. Steve left a legacy of friends worldwide who were changed because they knew him. Thank you Steve for loving us all so well. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and staff at John Peter Smith Hospital Fort Worth, particularly the ER Department and The Cardiac and ICU Units for your excellent care and kindness. Below you can find the information regarding Steve's Memorial Service will be held digitally during this time. Memorial Service: 10 - 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 29, 2020 (YouTube streaming link & chat feature opening 9:30 a.m.) Antioch Fort Worth YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/xa2E5DMnk3Q In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in honor of Steve Purtz to Antioch Ministries International Fort Worth in the link below. https://bit.ly/stevepurtzmemorial