Richard “Rick” Martin Purcell passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 55. Born on May 19, 1970, in Helena, Montana, Rick was the youngest of three sons born to William J. Purcell and Joyce I. (Swenson) Purcell. From an early age, Rick carried a quiet strength, a deep sense of responsibility, and a loyalty to his family and friends that defined the way he lived his life.
Rick was a devoted husband, a proud son and brother, and an honorary grandfather whose love extended far beyond titles or bloodlines. The greatest happiness of Rick’s life came from the love he shared with his wife, Dee Purcell. Dee brought Rick extreme happiness and joy through her unwavering support, unconditional love, and steadfast presence. Together they shared a bond built on trust, devotion, and genuine partnership. Rick was at his best when he was with Dee, and her love remained his constant source of strength and comfort.
After graduating from high school, Rick attended diesel mechanic school, launching a career built on skill, determination, and pride in honest work. He spent many years working as a diesel mechanic, earning respect for his knowledge, work ethic, and willingness to help others. Later in life, Rick chose to share his hard-earned experience by teaching diesel mechanics, passing along not just technical skills but also the values of responsibility, patience, and doing a job right the first time. He found great fulfillment in helping students learn a trade and prepare for their own futures. Rick retired just this past year, closing up a career he was deeply proud of.
Rick was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved most—especially outdoors. Some of his most treasured memories were made at hunting camps with his dad, brothers, and lifelong friends. Those camps were more than trips; they were places of laughter, tradition, and deep connection.
He especially cherished the pack trips he shared with his closest friends into hunting camp—moments filled with hard work, camaraderie, and respect for nature. Among Rick’s most beloved experiences were the unforgettable times spent with his dad on mountain lion hunts and grizzly bear hunts in Alaska. Those adventures reflected their strong bond and remained some of Rick’s most meaningful memories.
Family was always at the heart of Rick’s life. One particularly special journey was a trip to Puerto Rico with his family to return his grandmother’s ashes to the island—a deeply personal act of love, respect, and connection to family roots that meant a great deal to him.
Rick was preceded in death by his grandparents, Matilde Soto Macdonald and her husband John, and George J. Purcell and his wife Dorothy; numerous aunts and uncles; and his beloved father, William J. Purcell.
He is survived by his loving wife, Dee Purcell; his mother, Joyce I. Purcell; his brother Joe Purcell, and nephews Brian (Bethany) Purcell , great niece Hadley and Shawn Purcell; his brother Troy Purcell (Krista) and niece Brooklyn; his honorary grandkids Avery, Briar, Emerson, and James Morgan and their parents Nolan and Meghan; Dee’s siblings Brad Frazee (Kim Kearney) and Juli Rognlie (Matt); along with numerous cousins and countless friends—too many to name, but each held close in his heart.
Rick was not a man who sought attention, but his presence was steady, dependable, and deeply felt. He showed love through action, loyalty through consistency, and care through the time he gave to others. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the students he taught, the miles walked in the mountains, and the unwavering love he gave to his family and friends.
He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.
A memorial service celebrating Rick’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home immediately following the service. Memorials in Rick Purcell’s name may be made to the Rick Purcell Scholarship fund, in care of Joyce Purcell.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday February 14, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday February 14, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday February 14, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday February 14, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
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Bridger Walczynski says
Rick you were an amazing instructor at helena! You gave your knowledge and helped us a bunch, its why I am where I am now just 4 years after graduating! Already at the 2nd man position and hopefully the lead soon! Lots of small tips and tricks you knew and told us, ive remembered throughout these 4 years! You did fantastic with a bunch of “kids”!!!! And taught us a lifetime of information! You were awesome to talk to always!
Kathleen Broussard says
Joyce and family
We are so very sorry about Rick. Our thought and prayer are with you and your family at this very difficult time.
Keith, Kathleen, and Kory Broussard (MT DOR)
Nicolle (Will) Seiller says
I’m sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. I have many fond memories growing up in the North Valley with Rick. He was always very kind. My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Michael Spurzem says
Joyce and family,
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your son, Rick. Although I never met him, it sounds like he was a wonderful human being and family man. Your family has stayed very close throughout life, and his absence will be greatly missed by all. With much sympathy to you and your family. R.I.P. Rick.
Jim and Sally says
We are so very sorry to hear of Ricks passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Sue Hart says
Joyce, Joe, Troy, Dee, extended family,
So sorry for the loss of Rick. I always liked his nice personality.
Thought and prayers to all of your family.
Sue Tabbert Hart
John & Cherie Dahl says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Joyce and the rest of the family 😢🙏
John & Cherie Dahl says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Joyce and the rest of the family 😢🙏
Kimberly J. Parvinen says
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May you feel the presence of the Lord as you begin to heal. I pray that, in time, your cherished memories will outweigh your sorrows. Lifting you all up in prayer.
God Bless
Roy & Lori Ereth says
Joyce, Joe, Troy and All the Purcell family. We are sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We have so many memories. May the memories lighten the sorrow as we smile when we remember.