Roger Paul Purcell, of West Harrison, was born on August 13, 1973, in South Bend, Indiana. He was the cherished son of Richard Paul Purcell and Ruth Katherine Purcell (née Cheek). Roger was a proud graduate of Franklin County High School. Following graduation, he worked as a carpenter before joining the union as a construction laborer.

Roger was a true social animal who never met a stranger. He had a remarkable gift for striking up a conversation and making everyone feel like a friend. He found his greatest joy on horseback, spending countless hours riding trails through state parks and campgrounds. His love for horses began early, he was riding on his own by the age of four—and it remained a lifelong passion. Roger proudly earned a medal for participating in the Old Capitol Saddle Club's annual 100-Mile Trail Ride at O'Bannon Woods State Park near Corydon, Indiana, completing the ride for ten consecutive years.

To say Roger loved sports, especially basketball, would be an understatement. Much to his mother's embarrassment, if they were out to dinner and Roger spotted someone tall, he wouldn't hesitate to ask if they had played basketball, often leading to an enthusiastic conversation right there in the middle of the restaurant. His love of sports extended beyond being a fan. Roger dedicated more than 18 years to coaching youth basketball in both CYO and travel leagues and volunteered his time as a Little League baseball umpire.

Roger was a down-to-earth man with a warm smirk, an infectious laugh, and a personality that drew people in. If you ever camped with him at Brown County State Park, you probably remember his life-size John Wayne cutout, proudly displayed as a photo opportunity for a small fee. Whether through a joke, a conversation, or simply his welcoming nature, Roger had a way of making people feel included and at home.

On Friday, June 12, 2026, at the age of 52, Roger was found in the natural surroundings he loved after being missing for nearly two years. While his absence left an immeasurable void, the memories he created and the joy he brought to others never faded.

Roger will be remembered for the kindness he freely shared, the laughter he inspired, and the friendships he formed wherever life took him. His adventurous spirit, generous heart, love for family, friends, horses, and the outdoors will live on in the countless lives he touched. Though he is finally home, he will be deeply missed.

Those surviving who will cherish Roger’s memory include his dedicated and loving mother, Ruth Purcell; one brother, Richard Wade (Rahquel) Purcell; niece and nephew, Falyn and Roman; one uncle, John Cheek; as well as numerous cousins and close friends. Roger was preceded in death by his father, Richard Paul Purcell; maternal and paternal grandparents; as well as several aunts and uncles.

Funeral services for Roger are PENDING and will be announced as they become available.

Memorial contributions in honor of Roger can be directed to the Franklin County Community Foundation where a fund in Roger's memory will be established in the near future. Final details will be published once they are available.

To share a fond memory, leave a personal condolence, or to sign the online guestbook, please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home are honored to care for Roger and his family.