Joanne Jurecko Purnell

Joanne Jurecko Purnell, a dedicated wife, mom, sister, and friend, died suddenly on Saturday, August 8^thsurrounded by her family. She was 67.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA to John and Bernice Jurecko, Joan grew up on Guenevere Drive. She graduated from North Allegheny High School ‘70 and Indiana University of Pennsylvania ‘74.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree, Joan launched her career in the management training program of Pittsburgh National Bank where she met her husband, Rick. They were married in 1976 at Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church. Their daughter, Lauren Sue Purnell, was born in Worthington, Ohio in 1980.

To know Joan meant to appreciate her gregarious nature and generous heart. Joan created lifelong friendships wherever she lived, including Sagewood Court, Upper St. Clair, and Cherry Valley Lakeview Estates. She dedicated herself to her family and felt great pride in making a warm and welcoming home. Joan and Rick traveled extensively in Europe, exploring her Hungarian heritage and her passion for Christmas Markets. Joan loved Christmas, dogs, vacations in Maine and her trips to Charlottesville.

Joan is survived by her husband, Richard Purnell, and her daughter Lauren and son-in-law Joseph Kyle Swingle; her sister Susan Jurecko Brozick, brother-in-law Joseph Brozick, her nephews John (Nicole) and Justin Brozick; her great-niece Eleanor; her godsons Joseph and John Kushner; her many cousins and “adopted” children.

A covid-sensitive in-person gathering will be held at Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurry PA on Friday, August 14^th from 1-3pm. There will also be a virtual receiving line on Friday afternoon, for details email lobsterzoom@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to your local SPCA or food pantry.

Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at pittsburghcremation.com.