Wade Ralph Purcell

Wade Ralph Purcell, 84, passed away peacefully on Oct. 4, 2024, surrounded by family, after a recent diagnosis of lung cancer and bout of pneumonia.

Born Jan. 6, 1940, preceded in death by his parents; Ralph and Arleen Purcell and his identical twin, Howard. Survived by loving wife, Rondi (nee Roberts) and their daughters, Rachel (Michael) and Jamie (David), grandchildren; Kyle (Natalie), Cooper (Carley), Nathan and Blake, as well as, great granddaughters; Abby and Reese.

Wade was born and raised in Fort Scott, Kan., where he and Howard reveled in the joys and mischief of being twins. Although they never lived close as adults, their bond was strong and deep. Wade married his high school sweetheart and graduated from the University of Kansas with an Industrial Arts degree. In early married life, after seeing “The Great Escape” movie, he became fascinated with motorcycles. He enjoyed racing and tinkering with them until family life and job moves put an end to racing, but not the stories. Most of his professional career was spent in the pharmaceutical industry as a packaging engineer and manager. He is credited with three patents for his innovative packaging designs.

Job moves allowed he and Rondi to see different parts of the county. Wade’s last job took them to Ohio, where they remained long after he retired. They made wonderful friends, were very involved in their church and enjoyed local activities. Two years ago, after 27 years in Hilliard, Ohio, they moved to the Twin Cities area of Minnesota to be near family.

Wade loved sports, especially golf. He loved to read about techniques, watch and study the pros and even build his own golf clubs. Over the years, he had the opportunity to play some amazing courses and play rounds with many great people.

Aside from golf, Wade was a creative tinkerer. There was always something to be modified, tweaked or made better. He enjoyed using his artistic talents to make signs for events at work, church or for friends. He could also build the best box for packaging and shipping items.

Family, faith and friends were core to Wade’s life. He was a loving husband and father who let his family know he loved them. He encouraged his girls and supported their endeavors. Living in a house full of females could sometimes be a bit much for him, but he learned to embrace it. Humor and calmness were central to his character. He loved a good joke or silly prank. Church and giving back through involvement were very important to him. He served on committees and volunteered his talents and time on numerous teams in their church. Friends could count on him for a laugh or help in any situation.

A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation in Wade’s honor, please consider: First Tee, The Salvation Army or an organization of your choice.

O'Halloran and Murphy

651-702-0301