Mike Purse Sr., born May 29th, 1946, a lifelong resident of Springfield and a 30 year veteran of the Springfield Fire Dept., went to his final resting place on August 27. He was married to his best friend, Linda, for 49 and a half years. They were blessed with two sons, Mike Purse Jr. and Linda, and Scott Ryan Purse and his wife Amanda, who blessed him again with a grandson, Jackson, who added abounding joy and love to his life. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Cheryl Holzapfel and Mary Prater; two nieces, Lea and Lauren DeRigne, two great nephews, one great niece, a brother David Eggeman, and aunt, Peggy Marsh. Mike will be reunited with his mother, Mary Melton. Mike was a man of many talents. He was an avid fisherman, unselfishly sharing his knowledge with many friends. Most of all, he was devoted to and proud of his family. The family would like to give a special thanks to Andrea Tressler and Paula Grill for their loving care of Mike and his family. A visitation will be held Tuesday, September 2nd, from 5-7 pm at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield or the Salvation Army.