John Purcell Obituary
John W. Purcell, Sr., of Harrisburg PA, died Thursday February 5th at Harrisburg Hospital, after a short illness.
He was the son of the late John W. Purcell and Ann (Miller) Purcell Hill.
Surviving are his wife, AnneMarie T. (Pavelic) Purcell; his children, John W. Purcell, Jr., and wife Janice S. Purcell; Christine M. Purcell and Mary Ellen Heefner, honorary daughter; his grandchildren, Erica S. Purcell, Briana S. Purcell and Colin M. Purcell; his step-children, MaryCatherine Pavelic, Elizabeth Pavelic and Theodore Pavelic and his wife Kacey; a step-grandson, Jake Pavelic; and his cat, Bucky, all of whom will deeply miss him. He was preceded in death by wife, Eleanor Bambach Purcell and his brother, Charles Eugene Purcell of Wilkes-Barre, PA.
He was a World War II Veteran serving in England and Germany during the war. Upon his return, he graduated from Scranton University and Boston College Law School. Upon graduation, he worked for the Aetna Life Insurance Company. He was the founding attorney of the Harrisburg law firm of Purcell, Krug and Haller, and was a practicing attorney from 1953 until his death. He was also a local businessman, having owned and operated various businesses in the Central PA area, including the Congress Inn on Eisenhower Blvd. and RESCO, Inc., of Harrisburg. He was a member of the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, the Pennsylvania and Dauphin County Bar Association, West Shore Country Club where he was an active golfer and tennis player, having won the club singles championship in his 50's and the Susquehanna Ski Club.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 9th at 11 a.m., at St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church, 2848 Herr Street, Harrisburg, 17103. Rev. Daniel J. Menniti will be officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are being made by Hetrick Funeral Home, 3125 Walnut Street, Harrisburg.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in John's name can be made to St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church, School's Development Program, 2848 Herr Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103; or to Bethesda Mission, 611 Reily Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102; or to Central PA Food Bank, 3908 Corey Road, Harrisburg, PA 17109.
Condolences can be shared at www. hetrickfuneralhome.com Hetrick
Monique Ullom
February 10, 2009
Every time I saw John he always but a smile on my face with his twinkly eyes and his smile. I will truly miss him. My thoughts are with Anne and his family.
Warmest regards,
Monique
Kevin Riordan
February 9, 2009
I loved John as a father, since he served as my father when my father, Jack Riordan, one of John's good friends, passed away in 1997. I loved playing golf with John and continually got a kick out of how he could "intimidate" people or psych out his opponent. He had one of the greatest senses of humor I've ever encountered. He helped me in so many ways, whether it was legal issues, or just plain life issues. I will always fondly remember John and look forward to playing golf again in the "bye and bye." My most heartfelt condolences go out to Ann, John, Jr., and Chris and their families. He will be sorely missed!
Kathleen Ribec
February 9, 2009
I was a (young) secretary for Howard Krug (1980-1982). However, when Janet, Mr. Purcell's secretary was away, I would sometimes get called to take dictation for Mr. Purcell. Needless to say, I was very nervous, but he was very kind and considerate to me. It was a great pleasure working for his law firm.
When you are sad and have a moment, read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. I pray that it will bring you some comfort in your grieving process.
Melissa Mattison
February 9, 2009
I will always appreciate how John never hesitated to tell you his thoughts. In fact, I am smiling remembering how direct the delivery was......He was a great man!
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donald murphy
February 7, 2009
John: It wasa long(and pleasant )road from D'aU and you made some good marks on it.
Paul and Lori Chance
February 7, 2009
With heartfelt sympathy for all those whose lives Mr. Purcell touched. He will be missed.
Gene Hawkins sr.
February 7, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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