John Leland Pursell, the son of Russell Herald and Ruth (Horne) Pursell, was born August 5, 1927 in Tarkio, Missouri. He attended Tarkio Public Schools and graduated with the Class of 1947. In 1945, John enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country during World War II. He retired from the Naval Reserve in 1980, after 35 years of service. John was also employed as a Cost Estimator for the Paint -A-Line Co. of Washington, retiring in 1987.

In November, 1947, John was united in marriage to Shirley Jean Shineman. They became the proud parents of three daughters, Connie, Marcia and Cheryl. They were later divorced. On November 29, 1980, John was united in marriage to Ruthey C. French in Seattle, Washington. They made their home in the Greater Seattle area until 1993 when they moved back to Tarkio where they lived to the present time. John passed away May 13, 2008 at Northview Manor Nursing Home in Tarkio at the age of 80 years.

John was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Seattle and a former member of the Elks Club.

John is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Ruthey of the home in Tarkio; daughters, Connie Pursell, Seattle; Marcia Rier, Bothwell, Washington, Cheryl Meeteer and her husband Joel, Chicago, Illinois; six stepchildren, George Williams, Tina Simmons, Teresa Morris, Brett Annear, Brenda Rodrick, Glenda Lee; one grandson, Travis Leland Pursell; two granddaughters, Kelsey and Katie Brown; numerous step grandchildren and great grandchildren; one sister, Alice Beverly Watkins and her husband Jack, Orlando, Florida.

Masonic Services: May 21, 2008, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri
There is no visitation or funeral service.
A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.
Memorials: American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association
www.minterfuneralchapels.com
Services are under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio.