It is with profound sadness to share the passing of Ronald Eugene Purcell on October 14, 2024 at the age of 85. He was born in Salem, IL on May 21, 1939.
Ronald left Salem in 1957 after high school graduation to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigations; following which, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. In 1966, Ronald met the love of his life, Nancy, while on a ski trip and married her later that year. Together, they moved to St. Louis where he opened up multiple cigar stores, most notably Town and Country Tobacco which became a gathering spot to many in the local area, and raised a family.
He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 58 years, Nancy Hummel Purcell, and their two children Captain Christopher Purcell USN (Amy) and Jennifer Purcell Bobrowski (Captain Joseph Bobrowski USN). Above all, Ronald was the best Papa to Michael Bobrowski (17), Catherine Bobrowski (16), Connor Purcell (15), Aaron Purcell (13), and Sarah Purcell (8). He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Florence Purcell, of Salem, and is survived by brothers Edward Purcell (the late Laura McGinley), Frank Purcell (Sandra), and Mark Purcell (Betty), sister Martha Purcell Fox(Gale), along with nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Anselm Catholic Church in St. Louis, MO on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 11:00 am. Ronald will be buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO
