Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Mr. Purcell also lived in Manhattan before settling in Fort Wadsworth in 1970.
Mr. Purcell was employed for over 20 years for the city Department of Sanitation, working out of a garage in Stapleton. He retired in 1989.
Mr. Purcell served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was wounded in combat.
He was parishioner of St. Mary's R.C. Church, Rosebank, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
"He was a very devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather," said his daughter, Elaine Purcell.
Along with his daughter, Elaine, also surviving are his wife of 52 years, the former Mercedes Corsino; one son, Elias Jr.; three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be Friday at noon in the Virginia Funeral Chapel, Dongan Hills. Burial will be in Ocean View Cemetery, Oakwood.
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