Denise Purintun, age 64, of Howard and formerly of Huron, passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Ava's House in Sioux Falls, under hospice care. Her memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m., on Monday, November 17, 2025 at Welter Funeral Home in Huron. Visitation with the family present will begin at 5 p.m.

Denise Inez Heinzerling was born on April 4, 1961, in Miller, South Dakota, to Larry and Bess (Fanger) Heinzerling. She grew up in Miller alongside her five siblings before the family later moved to Huron, where she graduated from Huron High School in 1979.

On January 31, 1981, Denise married Alan Purintun in Huron. Together they raised two children, April and Kyle.

Over the years, Denise worked as a receptionist in several Huron businesses, including The Plains, the Hickory House, and Sundance Liquor.

Denise loved the outdoors—especially camping and water-skiing—and she was a devoted Detroit Lions fan, cheering them on through every season. Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends.

Throughout her life, Denise faced many health challenges with remarkable grace, courage, and strength. Her warmth, resilience, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, April (Greg Swearingen) Purintun and Kyle (Billie Jo) Purintun, all of Mitchell; grandchildren, Annabel, Emmett and Berkley, all of Mitchell; siblings, Dennis Heinzerling of Reno, NV, Dana (Kathy) Heinzerling of Kansas, and Dawn (Rick) Sass of Madison, SD; her step-father Rolly Aman of Aberdeen; her ex-husband and friend, Alan Purintun of Huron; and many special nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Danny and Dillon Heinzerling.