Frank Purse was born in the mining town of Shason, PA on 12 March 1888 to Margaret (Roos) and John Purse. At the age of 4, he moved to Wilkeson, WA with his parents. Mr. Purse moved to Tacoma, WA in 1919 where he operated an industrial safety business. From 1929 to 1938 he served as supervisor and adviser of the Washington State Public Utilities Department under Govs. Roland Hartley and Clarence Martin. Mr. Purse served as district supervisor of the Interstate Commerce Commission, Bureau of Motor Carriers in Portland. In 1938 he became district supervisor in the Chicago area. Mr. Purse joined the Spector Freight System in Chicago as vice president in 1958. In 1961, Mr. Purse retired and returned to Tacoma, WA. Mr. Purse married Bessie Alice Wright, who was born 19 Dec. 1895 in Loveland, WA, on 19 December 1916 in Loveland, WA. Mrs. Purse passed away on 28 April 1929 in Tacoma, WA. Mr. Purse's second marriage was to Wanda Sloma. After retiring to Tacoma, Mr. Purse passed away in January 1964. Mrs. Wanda Purse passed away in June 1972. Mr. Purse had 2 sons and a daughter.
From the description of Collection on Frank Purse's papers, 1930-1964. (Washington State Library, Office of Secretary of State). WorldCat record id: 168222862
