Robert Eugene Purcell

ROBERT E. "Bob" PURCELL, 81, of New Ulm, Texas, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2017, in Katy, Texas. He was born February 25, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of William David and Nora (Welch) Purcell. At an early age, Bob and his family moved to South Houston. He attended schools in Houston, graduating from a Catholic high school. After graduation, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17. He served a tour in Korea and three tours in Vietnam as a CB Chief Petty Officer. Bob received his Associates Degree and was employed as an Electrical Engineer for Baker/Davis Oil Refineries and Lowe’s Home Improvement Center, in Brenham. He attended Welcome Lutheran Church and St. John Lutheran Church of Cat Spring. Bob volunteered for Habitat for Humanity; building 2 homes in Bellville and owned and operated B & B Home Repair with Bob Hamilton as his business partner. He enjoyed carpentry, remote control planes and boats, and Lionel Trains. He is survived by his companion Roann Gandy of Brenham; daughter Debbie Molnar, husband Rick, and son Steven Purcell, all in Pennsylvania, step-daughter Yvonne Woods, husband Bill, of New Ulm; and grandson Will Woods of New Ulm. His is survived in death by two sisters; one brother; and his beloved puppies Bizzie and Rambo. He also has 4 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William and Nora Purcell, his brother John, son Bill and his puppy, Coco. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to: Veterans of War, American Heart Association or Faith Academy of Bellville, where he attended many events with his grandson, Will Woods.