Obituary of Lawrence Patrick PURCELL

May 14, 1929 – The Pas, Manitoba
December 29, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

With family at his side, Pat Purcell passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at the age of 91 years.

Pat was born in The Pas, Man. on May 14, 1929, spending his childhood there before moving with his family to Edmonton, Alta. in 1947. He attended the University of Alberta and graduated with a degree in his chosen field of geology. While in Edmonton Pat met the love of his life, Josephine (nee Herlick), and they married in 1956. He began his long and distinguished career in the oil and gas industry in Edmonton. Pat’s work also took him to Calgary, Dawson Creek, and Halifax before retiring in Calgary in 1992. 

An integral part of Pat’s life was his unwavering faith in God. He dedicated himself to daily prayer and was an active member of the Catholic Church community. Golfing, birdwatching, hiking, and fishing were his favourite outdoor hobbies. Regardless of where he lived, Pat was an ardent supporter of the Edmonton Football Team and rarely missed a CFL football game. His retirement years were spent travelling, relaxing at his second home in Canmore, and cherishing time with family and friends.

Pat will be most remembered for his kind and gentle spirit, sense of humour, and the great joy he found in nature. Rarely without a warm smile, his caring soul and wisdom led him to be a mentor and role model to many. 

Besides his devoted wife Josephine, Pat will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his three children, Father David, Ted (Dorothy), and Susan (Pat); six grandchildren, Vanessa (Andrew), Heather, Dave (Kelsey), James, Matthew and Daniel; and two great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Madalyn. 

Pat is survived by his sister, Irene Moxley, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Edmund and Maisie, brother Ted, and sister Joan Gates.

The family would like to offer their sincere thanks to the healthcare professionals at the South Health Campus for their dedication, compassionate care and support over Pat’s final months. They are also truly grateful to all those who provided him with exceptional care at the The Manor Village at Fish Creek Park. 

A Private Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church in Calgary on Thursday, January 7, 2021. Interment to follow at the Canmore Cemetery. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Pat’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Health Foundation –Vesia or South Health Campus, Suite 800, 11012 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary, AB  T2J 6A5, Telephone: (403)943-0615, www.thetrust.ca.