Kevin J. Purcell
June 21, 1955 – December 16, 2024
A Letter to Our Dad, Kevin J Purcell, Senior
Dear Dad,
We didn’t want this day to come. We feel sadness from our tremendous loss, but gratitude for the end of your suffering, as we announce your passing. You were a devoted Catholic, husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. You were our coach, a community leader, and a tireless volunteer, doing it all with a side of sarcastic humor. You went by so many names: Yoda, Pops, Old Man P, Mr. Purcell, Senior, Coach, Kevin, Godfather – but most importantly Husband, Dad, and Grandpa. You will be missed by many.
You grew up here in Omaha with your wonderful parents, two brothers and a sister. You proudly attended Holy Cross, Creighton Prep and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Through your hard work at Milder Oil, Fun Plex, Douglas County Court, and as an entrepreneur with your own business, you set an example for us in determination and hard work.
Along with Mom, you taught us devotion, forgiveness and loyalty through your fifty years of marriage and the unconditional love you showed to each other and to all of us, despite a few mistakes here and there. Sunday dinner will not be the same without your presence, but we will try to pick up the slack. You were a true man for others. We fondly remember helping you with Operation Others, packing and delivering food to those in need. Watching you volunteer for Fish Frys, the Knights of Columbus, Mary Our Queen and Prairie Lane Sports, Swim Omaha, the Salvation Army, Vincent DePaul, and Buford Foundation solidified our belief that we had an amazing Dad. The generosity you showed to others strengthened and solidified our faith and deepened our love for family and friends.
We may not understand God’s plan; however, we know you are at peace now. Your wife, Betsy (Elizabeth Kelly) Purcell; all 5 of your children: Sean Purcell, Kevin Purcell Junior, Brian Purcell, Alan Purcell, Caitie Purcell; your brother, Tom (Sue) Purcell; and the 3 grandkids: Lily and Aidan Purcell, Elise Mascarello, will continue your legacy. Please give our love to your parents, Tom and Mary Claire Purcell; uncle Mickey; aunt Peggy; along with the rest of the family when you meet them in Heaven. This is where the Yankees always win, desserts are carb-free, saltshakers are bottomless, and you don’t have to worry about human speed bumps. Until we see you again, your memories, love, and laughter will live on in our hearts. We will take care of each other, especially Mom.
With all our love,
Sean, Kevin Jr, Brian, Alan, and Caitie
VIGIL SERVICE: Sunday, December 22,2024, 7:00PM at Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, 3405 S. 118th St., Omaha with VISITATION from 5:00 – 7:00PM
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Monday, December 23 ,2024, 10:30AM at Mary Our Queen Catholic Church.
GRAVESIDE SERVICE AND INTERMENT: Monday, December 23, 2:00pm Calvary Cemetery, 7710 West Center Rd., Omaha.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Operation Others
To view live broadcasts of the service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page
16 Comments
Our prayers, along with the ones of our entire swimming community, are with you Betsy and with family at this difficult time. May God rest him in eternal Peace
Betsy, So sorry for your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. My sincere condolences.
So sorry to be unable to attend services for this great man. He was a big part of my children’s childhoods. Unable to say it sufficiently, but his influence was immeasurable. Condolences to Betsy and all the kids – Sincerely Linda (Stremlau) Pink
My condolences to you and family. God Bless
Hey neighbors. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time. Hugs.
Betsy, Kevin Jr, Sean, Brian, Alan and Cait, and the whole family—- my heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. I have so many happy memories and wish we had more chances to get together… you’re all in my prayers. Love 💕
Dear Sean and Family,
I am so terribly sorry to learn of your father’s passing.
May the memories and love for each other carry you all the days of your life.
My deepest condolences to all of you.
We are so sorry for your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time. May he Rest In Peace
Condolences to all of you – I remain the Purcells fondly
Purcell family – your letter to your dad is beautifully done. So many people were blessed to know your dad, see his example of service, and feel the zap of his humor. Thank you for sharing your husband/dad with so many. We pray your fond memories will carry you through your loss and grief. God bless all of you!
I am so sorry to hear about Kevin. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God’s light shine on you and your family.
Betsy and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Kevin’s passing. You remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Betsy,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Betsy, I am so sorry to hear of Kevin‘s passing. I didn’t know until just tonight. Christmas Day. Otherwise I would’ve attended the services. Kevin was a wonderful husband and father and grandfather. My prayers are with you and your family.
Heaven has gained a special angel. He was so active at MOQ. On behalf of the Wiehl family, our prayers are with you all.
Dear Betsy and the Purcell family. Sad to hear of your loss of a good man and my good friend from Holy Cross School. Nothing but good memories of our youth.
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