The Rev. Canon Dr. Robert Howard Pursel, age 67, a resident of 245 West Fifth St., Bloomsburg for 25 years, died Monday, November 23, 2009 at his home. He had been in ill health for the past year. Dr. Pursel was born December 8, 1941 in Bloomsburg, the only child of the late Russell H. and Mary B. (Berger) Pursel. He was a graduate of the Bloomsburg High School and the Bloomsburg State Teacher's College. He was most proud of his Doctor of Theology degree from the Trinity College, Toronoto, Canada. He was a member of the Washington Lodge #265 F&AM and the Caldwell Consistory both of Bloomsburg. For 24 years, The Rev. Dr. Pursel was rector of All Saints Episcopal Church, Selinsgrove. He retired August 1, 2009. On July 28, 2009 Robert and his wife, Janice (Lew) Pursel, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Survivors include many cousins in the Bloomsburg area. A Memorial Eucharist will be held on Saturday, January 16 at 11 A.M. in All Saints Episcopal Church, 129 North Market Street, Selinsgrove, PA. with The Rt. Rev. Nathan D. Baxter, Bishop, Diocese of Central Pennsylvania officiating. A reception and luncheon will follow services at the church. Contributions in his memory are suggested to: All Saints R.H. Pursel Memorial Fund, 129 North Market Street, Selinsgrove, PA 17870.