Thomas Alan Purcell, 69, passed away peacefully in his own home in Bear Creek, Colo., on Nov. 28, 2024. Born in California on Aug. 30, 1955, to James and Iris (Wilson) Purcell. He married the love of his life, Denise Hidlebaugh on Jan. 24, 1981, and together they enjoyed 44 years of marriage.
Tom embarked on his lifelong career in construction at the youthful age of 15, pouring his hard work and passion into every project he touched. His zeal for his craft was mirrored in his commitment to the Bear Creek Boys Club, which was a drinking and BS session where they did solve all the problems of the world.
As the cornerstone of his family, Tom stood as a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Denise Purcell, nurturing but stern father to son Kris (Yuka) Rieser of Johnstown, Colo., daughter the late Jennie Fulkerson, and son-in-law Chris (Kristina) Fulkerson of Moore, Okla., and his work children Anthony (Rebecca) Durst of Johnstown, Colo. The joy of his heart, his six grandchildren, were the recipients of his indulgent spoiling.
Tom's love extended to his siblings, Jim (Sheila) Purcell of Camden, N.C.; Dave (The late Charlotte) Purcell of Tulare, S.D.; sister Cari Mueller of Fond du Lac, Wis.; brother-in-law Tony (Lynn) Rezzuti, and brother-in-law Brian (Michelle) Snapp.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his little girl Jennie Fulkerson, as well as his brother-in-law Gary Hidlebaugh and sister-in-law Cheryl Rezzuti.
Tom relished in the art of woodworking, from building custom guitars to crafting custom bikes, each piece a narrative of his intricate artisanship. His humor — echoed through the "stupidest jokes" — will be profoundly missed by Denise, and by all who knew him. He loved his wife, kids and grandkids very much!
A man baptized into faith and love on Aug. 30, 2021, Thomas Alan Purcell was a testament to the power of a generous heart.
There will be a Memorial Service on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Conejos Canyon Community Church. There will also be a Celebration of Life at the Colorado Farm Brewery (His favorite place on earth) on June 21, 2025, time pending.
Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes, and words of comfort for Tom’s family please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.
