Donald Joseph Purcell, age 69, of Manton, MI, passed away on September 7th at Metro Health Hospital in
Byron Center, MI surrounded by family.
Born on August 20th, 1954, to Edward Purcell and Shirley (Sierzputowski) Purcell in Grand Rapids,
Michigan, Donald graduated from Godwin Heights High School with the class of '72
In 1974, Donald joined the United States Airforce as an airplane mechanic and was appointed Sergeant.
Two years into his service he was deployed to Iceland from 1976-1977 during the 3rd Cod War. In 1979, he
received an honorable discharge.
Afterwards, Donald graduated from the paramedic program at Davenport College in 1984 and worked as
an ambulance driver for multiple years. After this, he maintained a successful career as a semi-truck
driver until his retirement.
In 1971, Donald married his high-school sweetheart, Reeta Ocie Clifton, with whom he proceeded to
raise three children: Michael Purcell, Daniel Purcell, and Faith (Purcell) Lemke.
Donald enjoyed western and historical war films, as well as gospel music and religious literature. He
played professional chess on occasion, and was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions.
Donald is predeceased by his parents Edward Purcell and Shirley (Sierzputowski) Purcell and wife Reeta
Purcell. He is survived by his 3 children, as well as his siblings Richard Purcell, Robert Purcell, Sheryl
Purcell and Lisa Osterhoudt.
A memorial service will be held on Monday October 16th at 1:00 PM at the Manton Seventh-Day
Adventist Church.