Paul Purcell, 78, of Terre Haute, passed away on Monday, July 10, 2017, at Union Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Jan. 25, 1939, in Parke County, to Clem Albert and Sadie (Brown) Purcell.
Paul is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sue Purcell of Terre Haute; two daughters, Dixie Disher and husband Doug, Denise Rowlett; a nephew that was like a son, Rob Steidel; grandchildren, Amanda Klopfenstein and husband Chad, Chelsea Ostermeyer and husband Kraig, Nicole Purcell, and Nicholas Paul Disher; great-grandchildren, Grace and Brady Klopfenstein and Maren Ostermeyer; a brother, Norman Purcell and wife Bea; sisters, Thelma Anderson, Minnie Bennett, Carolyn Brewer and husband Maurie, and Dixie Berrios and husband John.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Rick Purcell.
Paul worked for Ford Motor Company in personnel, retiring after 30 years. Having a passion for teaching and coaching, Paul taught school and coached athletics for 10 years. He was especially fond of his team in Hymera. He was a natural athlete himself, earning several awards, including the McMillan Award. Paul loved having the opportunity to pass along lifelong knowledge and to help student athletes reach their full potential.
After retirement, Paul enjoyed spending winters in Florida playing cards and golfing. An avid hunter and fisherman, Paul enjoyed spending time outdoors. He loved to travel extensively. He always looked forward to taking his grandchildren on trips. Paul was a member of the Sycamore Club and the Elks. He was also a member of Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Seminole, Fla. Paul will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
Per his wishes, Paul will be laid to rest in Roselawn Memorial Park's Chapel of Memories with no services. Paul was a firm believer in giving the gift of life through organ donation. In honor of Paul, please donate life and register to become an organ donor. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Paul's family at: www.roselawnfuneralhome.net