Obituary of Lois Purcell

PURCELL, Lois (nee DeMerchant)

Lois died Friday, May, 19, 2017 at her home in Toronto after a long illness, cheerfully endured.  Born 1943 in Moncton, New Brunswick, Lois met her future husband Bob Purcell (died 2014) while at Saint Francis Xavier University.  They were fixtures in the worlds of journalism, public relations and Ontario Conservative Party politics in Toronto from the 1970’s to the 1990’s.  Lois had careers as a political manager, real estate agent and investment manager.  She and Bob were never happier than when sailing out of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto.  She is predeceased by her parents, Samuel and Jean (Laviolette) DeMerchant.  Survived by her loving cousin Frances (Gallant) Bridges, best friend Eve-Lynne, sisters-in-law Barbara Purcell (the late Pete), Judy Hamelin (Marcel), Patricia Smart (John) and Susan Purcell, as well as Mooch the Cat.  Fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews.  The family thanks Eve-Lynne and Lois’ “angels,” Annie, Anne, Beatriz, Carmen and Jaime for their loving care.  Lois, it was never dull when you were around.  You will be greatly missed.  Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.