----Source: CLARK COUNTY REPUBLICAN & PRESS (Neillsville, Wis.) 07/10/1919

Purcell, John (1840? - 6 Jul 1919)

John Purcell, one of the old residents of this locality (Clark County, Wis.), died at the county poor farm Sunday morning, aged about 78 years. Deceased was born in Ireland, and was the oldest of thirteen children, only one of who survives him, now living in the old country. He came tot he United States in 1873 and stopped at McGregor, Iowa, working on the railroad. In 1874 he came to Hatfield, Clark County and began working on the Green Bay road, making his home with the R. B. French family. He continued to work on the railroad in summer and in lumber camps in winter as long as he was able, coming back to the French home when he was out of employment. During his younger years he sent money home to Ireland to support his mother while she lived, also sent money to help his sisters and other relatives. He was a very honest man and kind hearted.

One summer John Purcell worked for the writer on the farm, and we have always since then counted him among our friends. He was a quaint genial character. His odd sayings and homely comments on the affairs of life made his quite an agreeable companion. He greatly appreciated kindness and never tired of telling of the goodness of the French family and others who had done him favors.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Fr. Weber officiating..