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In Memory: Dr. Paul A. May (PU DVM ‘67)

A Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumnus who was a member of just the fifth class to graduate from the college, passed away recently. Dr. Paul A. May (PU DVM ’67) died January 3, 2023 in Bradenton, Florida.  He was 84. 

Dr. May was raised in Remington, Indiana, where he spent time working on farms and developed a love for animals and agriculture. He then enrolled at Purdue University in the College of Agriculture and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1960, before pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. After earning his Purdue DVM degree in 1967, he moved to Florida and practiced in both Sarasota and Manatee County. He owned the Manatee Veterinary Clinic in Bradenton and worked at the Bishop Animal Shelter. His veterinary career spanned more than more than 40 years before he retired in 2008.

Dr. May also was active in his community and church. He served as deacon at West Bradenton Baptist Church where he also taught the college and career Sunday School class. In addition, Dr. May enjoyed fishing, reading, and spending time with his family, as well as participating in field trials at the Babcock-Webb preserve in Punta Gorda, Florida, where he shared his love of dogs and horses with many friends.  Most of all he is remembered for his love of sharing his faith with anyone he got to know.

A memorial service was held Saturday, January 7, at West Bradenton Baptist Church. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory was in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. May’s memory to Gideons International. Condolences may be shared at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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