Sister Nora Purtell was born October 5, 1928 and departed this life April 11, 1992 in the 44th year of her Religious life.

After graduation from high school Sister Nora entered Mount St. Francis in 1946. She was received into the Franciscan community August 12, 1947 and she was perpetually professed August 10, 1952.

Sister began her teaching career at Manchester, Iowa. In 1954 she taught at Holy Ghost where her companion Sisters recalled that her angelic presence seemed to bring about a gentle behavior in her pupils. After 12 years as an elementary teacher, Sister Nora became a Medical Librarian.  In 1983 she retired to Immaculate Conception Convent and in 1988 she entered Holy Family Hall.

Always in delicate health, Sister Nora submitted graciously to the rigorous diets prescribed for her. Suffering was a constant companion.  Her final conscious words were, "Come, Lord Jesus, I am ready. Come soon!"