Obituary of Matthias Francis Purcell

Matthias Francis "Frank" Purcell of Lansdown Drive, Antigonish passed away peacefully Thursday, May 18, 2017 at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital. Born in Roman Valley, Guysborough Co. on July 14, 1933, he was a son of the late Henry and Frances (Rogers) Purcell. Frank worked from a very young age in many capacities of the public sector. He was a very active community volunteer and, as a result, was recognized by the province of Nova Scotia for his dedicated service. He was a long time member of the Antigonish Town Volunteer Fire Department and was also a faithful driver with the Antigonish Care Van. Many happy hours were spent at the rink as initially a minor hockey parent, coach and, in later years, as a timekeeper. Frank is survived by his wife of 60 years Bernadine (Chisholm) and his seven children. Janet (Colin) Chisholm, Paula (Doug) Avery, Patricia (Norm) MacPherson, Gerard (Terry), all of Antigonish; Kathleen (Gary) Gray, Mississauga; David (Wendy), Oakville; and Mark (Jennifer), Fort McMurray. He was a very proud Papa to Jennifer, Daniel & Mary Beth Chisholm, Andrew & David Avery, Maria, Sean & Heather MacPherson, Kathryn & Colleen Purcell, Luke & Anna Gray, Jaynie Purcell, Skylyn & Lily Purcell. He is also survived by his sister Annette (late Joe) Chiasson and brother Bernard (Anne), sisters-in-law Mary Purcell and Evelyn Purcell and numerous nieces and nephews. Besides his parents he was predeceased by brothers Joe, Henry and sister, Margie (Johnny) Carroll. Visitation Sunday, May 21, 2017 from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9 :00 pm in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 am Monday, May 22, 2017 at St. Ninian’s Cathedral, Antigonish, Rev. Donald MacGillivray presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Ninian’s Cemetery Committee or a charity of your choice. Family Flowers only please.