Grace, Class and Endless Service

Knock, knock, knock…

A few shots of Galen and the guys.

(opening door) Yes?

”Hey, I’m Galen Purcell and I’m walking around North Hall with Eric here, asking guys if they have any questions about Delta Pi?”

This was my formal introduction to Galen, but I had already seen him and Eric Kuhns (Jellyhead) around. I had been to Delta Pi quite a few times as a Probie and even talked to both of them once or twice. To my 17 year old eyes, these two looked and acted like the ultimate “college guys”. If it was Animal House, Galen’s introduction and handshake in North Hall was akin to “Eric Stratton, Rush Chair…damn glad to meet you!'“ And I won’t lie, that day, and meeting those guys was a factor in my deciding to pledge Delta Pi. I wanted a little bit of what those guys seemed to embody. Both Mike Domin and I were impressed with these two brothers.

The next semester, we moved to Schuykill Hall and pledged Delta Pi, and the rest is history…

Who was Galen Purcell?

I have attached the obituary below. When you read it, you will see that Galen was so much to so many. Husband, father, military service, police service, and so much more. But since this is a Delta Pi tribute, I want to primarily focus on who Delta Pi Galen was to our organization.

If you have memories of Galen that you would like to share, please post them in the comments below

When someone says, “I bleed blue and silver” I always think of Galen as the epitome of this phrase and its living embodiment. So many times, Galen would be attending Homecoming or some other Delta Pi event, and he would turn to me and say, “these guys represent some of the best years of my life.” He would get that satisfied, knowing, infectious smile on his face, and you knew he felt a contentment. He was so proud of being a Delta Pi brother. He showed it everywhere, and in everything he did. He wore letters more than anyone else I ever knew.

Galen and Hank Riordan were my first Delta Pi “older guy” roommates. We were a quad room in apt. E in the Crag house. I think they picked Domin and I for the other room because they thought we would be easily manipulated. They were right. What happened was a semester of ridiculous adventures, laughs and life-long friendships.

From Hank Riordan; on Galen’s passing…

It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of our dear friend Galen who suffered a heart attack one week ago today.

Although truly horrific please take solace in the knowledge that Galen passed surrounded by his loved ones and that his last act was to give the gift of life and healing to many organ recipients.

Trust that his enthusiastic spirit and positivity will live on in these fortunate strangers much as it will in all of us privileged enough to have known him and called him Brother.

Obituary

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Galen Purcell on December 11, 2023. Mr. Purcell, a Management Analyst III with Delaware Capitol Police, dedicated 28 years of his life to the service of the community, retiring as a Major with the Delaware State Police. His commitment to public service leaves an indelible mark on the law enforcement community and the people of Delaware. Our hearts go out to his grieving family as they navigate this tremendous loss.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Lana, his children Patrick, Amanda, and Caitlin, and his grandson Connor. The void left by Mr. Purcell’s departure is immeasurable, and we share in their sorrow during this difficult time. Galen Purcell’s legacy as a legendary public servant will be remembered with utmost respect. As a stalwart member of Delaware Capitol Police FOP Lodge 11 and the Delaware State Troopers Association, he leaves a lasting impact on his colleagues and the community he served.

In honoring his life, we stand in solidarity with our Delaware Capitol Police FOP Lodge 11 brothers and sisters and his Delaware State Troopers Association family as they bid farewell to a leader, mentor, and friend. May his memory inspire continued dedication to public service, and may his family find strength in the love and support surrounding them during this challenging time.

A piece Galen was proud of which outlined is Delaware service.

You will be missed brother. Don’t think there will ever be anyone else as “pure” of purpose and intention to come along and fill your sizable shoes.

Peace.

Delta Pi, ‘til ya die.