Carl Pursell

Carl Duane Pursell (December 19, 1932 – June 11, 2009) was a politician from the U.S. state of Michigan.

Pursell was born in Imlay City, Michigan and graduated from Plymouth High School, Plymouth, Michigan, in 1951. He worked in his father's business and served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. In 1957 and 1961, he earned degrees from Eastern Michigan University, where he was also a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He received an alumnus achievement award in 1974 and a distinguished alumnus award in 1990.

In 1969, Pursell ran successfully for a seat as Wayne County Commissioner. He left this position in 1971, after being elected from the 14th District to the Michigan Senate, serving from 1971 to 1977. Pursell was elected as a Republican from Michigan's 2nd congressional district to the United States House of Representatives. He served in the 95th Congress and to the seven succeeding Congresses, serving from January 3, 1977 until his retiring from Congress on January 3, 1993. A moderate, he served as ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education.

Pursell served as regent of Eastern Michigan University from 1993 to 1999.

Pursell died at his home on June 11, 2009 at the age of 76; he is survived by his wife and his three children.