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Daniel Edward Purnell, 79, of Bellefontaine, passed away Monday, Nov. 21, 2016, at Kobacker House, Columbus.
He was born in Columbus on Dec. 25, 1936, to the late Addie Stewart and the late Daniel V. Purnell. He also is preceded in death by a sister, Martha Springs; stepfather, William C. Brown; and stepbrothers, John, Clayton and Harrison Brown.
On Oct. 19, 1958, he married the former Karen Ann Breaston in Bellefontaine and she survives, along with their children, Martin A. (Lisa) Purnell of El Mirage, Ariz., Charlayne (Charles) Martin of Pataskala, Timothy Purnell of Wilmington, N.C., Christine Purnell and Nathan Purnell-Ratleff, both of, Angela (Neal) Napier of Pickerington and Kenya (Kevin) Pleasant of New York, N.Y.; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his siblings, Ellen Kinchen and Gerald (Ora Miliner) Purnell of Dayton; his aunt, Martha S. Lash of Columbus; 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 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 is from 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, at the Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 321 N. Main St., Bellefontaine. Funeral services will be immediately thereafter.
Memorial contributions can be made to Ohio Heath Hospice, Kobacker House, 800 McConnell Drive, Columbus, OH 43214; foundation.ohiohealth.com.
Condolences may be expressed at www.edsfh.com.