Daniel Purnell

Daniel Edward Purnell, 79, of Bellefontaine passed away Monday, November 21, 2016 at Kobacker House, Columbus, OH. He was born in Columbus, OH on December 25, 1936, to the late Addie (Stewart) and the late Daniel V. Purnell. He is preceded in death by sister Martha Springs, stepfather William C. Brown, and stepbrothers John, Clayton, and Harrison Brown.

On October 19, 1958, he married the former Karen Ann Breaston in Bellefontaine and she survives him along with their children: Martin A. (Lisa) Purnell of El Mirage, AZ, Charlayne (Charles) Martin of Pataskala, OH, Timothy Purnell of Wilmington, NC, Christine Purnell of Bellefontaine, OH, Angela (Neal) Napier of Pickerington, OH, Kenya (Kevin) Pleasant of New York, NY, and Nathan Purnell-Ratleff of Bellefontaine, OH; nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren; his siblings, Ellen Kinchen, Gerald (Ora Miliner) Purnell of Dayton, OH; his aunt, Martha S. Lash of Columbus, OH; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Daniel had a strong work ethic and sense of community. After working a number of years at D.A.B. Industries, he developed a career in public service as an attendance officer for the Bellefontaine City Schools ("BCS"), and as a juvenile probation officer for Logan County. He also operated a county group home along with his wife Karen. He retired from BCS and Logan County after two decades of service.

He was active an member of the Hi-Point Elks, and served on the board of directors for the Logan County Metropolitan Housing Authority, and the Mental Health, Drug & Alcohol Services Board of Logan & Champaign Counties.

A compassionate and caring person, he was a tireless advocate for those underestimated by society and touched countless lives throughout this community.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 2016, from 1pm-3pm at the Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 321 N. Main St. Bellefontaine. Funeral services will be held immediately thereafter.

Memorial contributions can be made to Ohio Health Hospice, Kobacker House, 800 McConnell Drive, Columbus, OH  43214.   https://foundation.ohiohealth.com/

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