Firefighter William Alfred Purcell – Aug 1934 – Feb 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Bill Purcell, age 91, of Toronto, Ontario, who passed away on February 9, 2026. Bill was born to John Joseph Purcell and Ernestine (MacEachern) Purcell on August 25, 1934, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. He married his beloved, Mary Lu Little, on October 5, 1956, and they lived together in Toronto, raising their two children, JoAnne and Jaye. Bill leaves his daughter, Jaye Jolicoeur, and his daughter, JoAnne Tatone, and her spouse, Maurizio, as well as his granddaughter, Jaye Casciano, and her spouse, Alexander. Bill was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Lu (Little) Purcell, who passed away on November 17, 2021. He was also predeceased by his only sibling, brother, John “Jack” Purcell, and his spouse, Audrey.

Bill was mostly known and loved as a professional hockey coach for over 50 years, as well as a retired firefighter for the City of Toronto. His career began with the Toronto Fire Department on the 13th of May 1960, and he retired on the 26th of September 1978, after 18 years of service. His many accomplishments are recognized by the PEI Sports Hall of Fame and Ice Hockey Fandom, among many other honors. His legacy will live on forever, both in our hearts and in the hearts of those he helped along the way.

https://everloved.com/life-of/william-purcell/obituary/

Celebration of Life – Saturday, April 18th, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at Royal Canadian Legion, Branch # 606, 1555 Bayly St, Pickering, Ont.

Sincerest Condolences from all our Retiree Groups go out to the Family and Friends.

In Solidarity,

Retired Toronto Fire Fighters Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888