Donald R. Purcell

Mr. Donald R. Purcell, age 82, a native of Utica and more recently of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2009 after a long and courageous fight with Parkinson’s Disease. His passing occurred at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with his family by his side. Born in Utica on June 3, 1927, Donald was the son of the late John and Helen (Lindsey) Purcell. Raised and educated locally, he attended Utica Free Academy. A veteran of the U.S. Merchant Marines, he served his country with the U.S. Army Transport Service. On September 27, 1952 he married the former Maureen Creedon with whom he shared nearly 57 years; they were well-suited partners in their marriage and good parents to their children. Don worked for the Sears & Roebuck Company for over 40 years, retiring in 1985. He moved to Vero Beach, Florida in 1991, and recently returned to be closer to his family. He will be remembered as an easy-going man, always friendly, ever honest and humble. Don and Maureen loved to entertain, and their home on Oakdale Ave. was “party central” for all occasions. He valued his civic affiliations, including his lifetime membership in the American Legion of Post #1376 of New Hartford where he served as Post Commander and had the distinction of being one of the original members of the Color Guard. Proud to be involved in patriotic events, he drummed his fellow guardsmen “down the street in rain or shine”. He also held a past membership in the Clinton Veterans of Foreign Wars, and joined the Florida Irish American Club. Don is survived by his wife, Maureen; his devoted and caring sons and daughters-in-law, Garry and Carol Purcell of Deansboro, and Rick and Kathy Purcell of Sauquoit; and his grandchildren, Michael Purcell; Jennifer Purcell, Daniel Purcell, and Kristen Purcell. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Kay Purcell of New Hartford; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Elvira Purcell, James Creedon, Peg Kelleher, Kay Creedon, and Bill Knittel. He was predeceased by his brother, Gene Purcell. Maureen wishes to thank her daughters-in-law, Carol and Kathy, who have been such kind and wonderful caregivers while assisting Don and Maureen during these difficult times. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. By family request please omit floral offerings. The members of the American Legion Post #1376 of New Hartford will assemble for ritualistic services at 6:30 at the funeral home. Don’s funeral service will commence on Saturday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church on Burrstone Road where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with American Legion Color Guard honors. Committal will take place at the convenience of the family.

Donald R. Purcell

June 3, 1927 - August 12, 2009