John Louis Puricelli
John Louis Puricelli
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A lifelong outdoorsman, John found his greatest peace in nature. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply wandering through the woods, he was happiest under open skies. Calhoun County, which he fondly called "God's Country," was his favorite place on earth. He tracked every ridge and hollow, finding beauty in every step.
John was a proud graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he earned his master's degree in Environmental Science. His education deepened his lifelong respect for the natural world, and he remained an enthusiastic SIU-E alumnus throughout his life.
He had a love for what he called "real country music". The likes of George Jones, Patsy Cline, and the sounds of bluegrass and steel guitar followed him wherever he went – a soundtrack to a life well lived.
John celebrated 38 years of sobriety, a journey that shaped much of his life and character. Through Alcoholics Anonymous, he built countless friendships and helped many others find strength and hope. His example of perseverance, humility, and gratitude touched everyone who knew him.
Above all, John loved his family deeply. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life, and his pride in them was evident to all who knew him.
John Louis Puricelli's life was one of integrity, faith, and joy in the simple things. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength that will live on in those who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his:
Parents, John and Mary Jane Puricelli
Surviving are his:
Children:
Lucas (Emily) Puricelli of Kirkwood, MO
Andrew Puricelli of St. Louis, MO
Clayton (Jessica) Puricelli of Bloomington, IL
Jessica (Brett) Thornton of Collinsville, IL
Claudia (Alex) Cearlock of Collinsville, IL
Sisters:
Mary Theresa (Fano) Falcetta of Crestwood, MO
Nancy Puricelli of St. Louis, MO
Grandchildren:
Marco Puricelli
Ty Puricelli
Brooke Puricelli
Luca Puricelli
Alana Jones
Tate Thornton
Troy Thornton
Former wife and mother of Lucas and Andrew:
JoAnne Donnelly
Former wife and mother of Clayton, Jessica, and Claudia:
Cathy (Tom) Shank of Collinsville, IL
Special friends:
Lance Peterson
Renee Russell
Robyn Howell
His AA and IDOT friends
Staff and friends at the Village of Hollybrook
Memorials: Memorials may be made to District 18 for those in recovery and those still suffering.
Visitation: Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.
Services: A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Kurrus Funeral Home with Pastor Myles Holmes officiating.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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Michael Pritchett
November 14, 2025
Brooks Brestal, Michael Pritchett, Tom Siekmann and John at the Fudge Shop in Grafton.
Michael Pritchett
November 14, 2025
It was a pleasure to know John as a coworker at IDOT as well as generally weekly lunch after he left IDOT. His humor and stories were great, as well as his companionship. Go in peace with the Lord, John.
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1773 Frank Scott Parkway West, Belleville, IL 62223
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