Albert “Al” Joseph Pursley, age 78 of Grand Haven, formally of Lowell, passed away at his home on December 21, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife of over 30 years, Sandy; parents, Gerald Pursley and Marjorie Totten; brother, Jack; sister, Beverly; and grandson, Patrick. He is survived by his life partner, Pat Marcotte; children, John (Wendy) Pursley, Kari (Todd) Wood, Kristina (Steve) Shannon, Jan (Bill) O’Donnell; grandchildren, Tara, Seana, Amanda, Daniel, Kristin, Elizabeth, Hannah, Jonathan, Mary (Justin), Caitlin (Josh), Michael; great-grandchildren, Logan, Raya, Nova, Delia, Will; brothers, Thomas and Dean; sister, Geraldine Schultz; sister-in-law, Pat (Ron) Schumaker; and many nieces and nephews. Al served in the US Navy and retired from Steelcase where co-workers knew him best as “The Fox”. For many years he was a member of the West Michigan Bluegrass Association and a founding member of Steam Powered Bluegrass Band where he played and traveled to many festivals all over Michigan and Indiana. Al enjoyed spending time with his family and was excited when he and his son would compete in Bass tournaments. He was a 50-year “Friend of Bill W.” Al will be missed by many. A celebration of life will be held 2-5 PM, Saturday, January 28, 2023, at the Firefighter’s Hall, 1930 Fuller St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Society, 129 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, or Children Advocacy Center of Ottawa County, 12525 Union St., Holland, MI 49424.
16 Responses
We will sure miss you Al. God Bless
Al was a great guy…The Best! We played and sang together in the Steam Powered Bluegrass band for many years. He was my musical partner/brother and I can’t believe he’s gone. Miss you, “Big Al”. Godspeed.
We are already missing you Al, even though we are many miles away. We always enjoyed your company and the music we played together
What an absolute joy knowing this wonderful person! He was a real testimony to what it was to be living the life of grace, in Christ! He will be greatly missed, especially in all of those bluegrass jam circles that he so enthusiastically participated in!
We will certainly miss that smile, quick wit and eagerness to join in a jam. Our deepest sympathies to Pat, family and friends for the loss of a great man. Share stories and memories often….
Gary always enjoyed seeing Al and playing music with him.
So sorry to hear this news. He really enjoyed playing music and will be sorely missed!
Thank you Al for your friendship, quick wit and level headedness. I miss you. Mary Wyatt
Julie and I will both miss Al and his ever-present smile. He was a great singer and one of the friendliest people on the planet. Rest in Peace, our friend. We’ll see you on the other side someday!
Al was a great friend of my family’s and a life-saver to my mom, for which my dad and I will forever be grateful. Our heartfelt condolences to Kari, John and family!
RIP old friend, I’ll see ya on the other side!!
Al always had a softness about him. He was a genuine soul, sports lover and always had a smile on his face!! He will be missed. Pat and family, you are in my prayers. Praying that peace will blanket you during this difficult time.
John and Kari, Tom and I are so sorry to hear about your dad. We have fond memories of your folks and hanging out with your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sad day when I heard the news of Al passing. When I was president of the WMBMA, Al was an important member of my board and one I could always depend on. I enjoyed playing Bluegrass Music with him and our discussions on the history of the music. Even though I am many miles away, I miss you. God Bless to Pat and your family and may you rest in peace.
Jim and I had many happy times together. we shared over fifty years of friendship with Al and Sandy later with Al and Pat. We will miss him.
Al always had a welcoming smile and an encouraging word. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to meet such a multi-talented man!
Thinking especially about Al these past weeks. I have many great memories . It was an honor to have played in a band with him, and the occasional get togethers as band members and friends will be doubly treasured. He was truly a friend and a gentle man. Always a pleasure to be with. My prayers and thoughts go out to the family for comfort and peace. He will be greatly missed.