Bruce Edmond Purnell

Bruce Edmond Purnell, 68, of Kankakee, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 5, 2023. Bruce was born on June 21, 1954, the son of Edmond and Dolores (Largen) Purnell. Bruce is a retired veteran from the U.S. Army, serving from 1977 to 1983 as Staff Sargent with an honorable discharge, and from 1983 to 2009 as a member of the National Guard. He was passionate about serving our country, military history, dogs, avid reader, and a parishioner of the catholic religion. He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie (Matt) Morin and their children, Wyatt and Aubrey; sister, Beth (David) Harmon and their children, Melinda, Melissa, Mackenzi (Josh), Mason, and Madison; brother, Bryan Purnell of Colorado and his children, Angellyna, Amadeus, Amber, Abraham, and Andreus; many great nieces and nephews. Bruce is preceded in death by his father and mother, Edmond and Dolores Purnell, and infant sister, Babette Purnell. A private military service will be held at a later date with burial at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Cremation rites have been accorded. Jensen Funeral Home in Kankakee is handling the arrangements.