Donald P. Merrill, 86, of Lakewood, formerly of Stone Road, Falconer, died Friday December 19, 2025, in his home.

He was born on January 1, 1939, in Cherry Creek, a son of the late Kenneth and Erma Lietz Merrill.

A 1956 graduate of Pine Valley Central School, he went on to receive a degree in Applied Art from Erie County Technical Institute.

He was a veteran of the US Army serving from 1961-63.

Prior to his retirement, he was a carpenter for forty-five years. He was employed by Carpenters Union Local 66 and in later years worked on various projects for them as time allowed. He applied his skillset in service to his church, his friends and at Wycliffe Bible Translators where he participated in volunteer construction projects.

He was a member of Hillcrest Church where he served as a trustee and usher. He was also a member of Koinonia of Chautauqua County.

He was a loving father and devoted husband, caring for his wife, Pamela faithfully through her long illness.

He will be remembered most for his kindness, gentle demeanor and generosity with his time and talents.

Surviving are two children Jennifer (Scott) Houchin of Haymarket, VA, and Randall (Aya) Merrill of Fort Lee, NJ; two grandchildren Abigail and Kyle Houchin and two sisters Delores (Arthur) Scott of South Dayton, NY and Janice Merrill of Jamestown.

He was preceded in death by his wife Pamela Cooley Merrill, whom he married May 23, 1970, and who died February 15, 2023, and a brother Norman D. Merrill.

Friends will be received from 2-4 pm Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the Lind Funeral Home.

The funeral will be held at 2 pm Sunday, December 28, 2025, in Hillcrest Church.

Burial will be in Allen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hillcrest Church Preschool, Hillcrest Church AWANA Program or Hillcrest Church Deacon's Benevolent Fund.