Robert Paul Purcell

Robert Paul Purcell, of Newton Township died on Thursday evening at Regional Hospital, Scranton. He was 89.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Frank D. and Margaret Braukus Purcell. Robert "Bob" was a proud veteran of the Marine Corps, serving in Korea from 1952 to 1955. Upon return from Korea, Bob met and married the late Madelyn (Mayer) Purcell, also of Scranton, and they had seven children. He is survived by his children and their spouses: Robert "Robin" and Terry Purcell, Patti Purcell, Terri (Purcell) Nappi and Dom Nappi Jr., Nanci Purcell, Susan (Purcell) and Angelo DiPilla, Mary Beth (Purcell) and Brian Albertini, and Margaret (Peggie) Purcell-McPherson and Dave McPherson. He had 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren: Robbie, Madelyn, Marielle, Mallory, Dominic III, Katie, Claire, Kelly, Liam, Scott, Ava, Fallon, Evan, Molly, Gwen, Maddoc, Maeve, and Quinn, who were a source of great joy and pride. He is also survived by his sister Joanie (Purcell) Maikranz, niece Michelle, nephews Fred and Jeff and their families.

Bob had a long and successful career in construction and contracting. He was the founder and owner of The Great American Construction Company. He specialized in custom woodworking and brought his artistry into numerous businesses and homes throughout his community. Later in his career, he served as a contracting estimator for a number of local companies.

Bob always had "an inkling to fly" and took advantage of the GI bill to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot. For years he flew his Piper aircraft to regional airports where he would meet with fellow pilot friends for "fly-in breakfasts". Bob enjoyed baseball and was a Phillies fan. He was an avid crossword puzzler, which kept his mind sharp. Bob was quick-witted and follically challenged. He was good-humored about his condition, stating "I am not bald, I just bought a haircut with a hole in it" or "I am just taller than my hair!"

Bob loved his family and appreciated simply being present at family events, especially the annual holiday "Pollyanna" gathering.

The family wishes to extend deep gratitude to the staff at DaVita Scranton Dialysis and Regional Hospital, particularly the doctors and nurses, for their compassionate care.

A Mass of Christian Burial with military honors will be celebrated on Monday at 2 pm at Our Lady of the Snows Church, 310 S. State Street, Clarks Summit by Msgr. Joseph G. Quinn, pastor. Interment will be held at a later date in Cathedral Cemetery.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Monday from Noon to 1:45 p.m. at Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State Street, Clarks Summit.