Donald C. Merriam

Donald C. Merriam, 84, born January 3, 1929 from Chittenango, passed away Tuesday surrounded by his family. As a lifelong resident of Chittenango, he was the son of Robert and Marion Merriam and grew up on a dairy farm. Don assumed the duties of the farm when he was 23 when his father passed away. Married to his high school sweetheart, Don worked the farm and drove school bus for the Chittenango School District. Raising a family, Don transitioned the farm from dairy to stock and feed to pursue a career as a mechanic. Don worked 40 years for the Chittenango School District as a bus driver, bus mechanic and ultimately head of the bus garage. He was a jack of all trades and a master of some. He loved to fix things. An excellent provider for his family, raising three children, all with college degrees and families of their own, something he was very proud of. He was a strong, quiet and thoughtful man who loved hunting, camping and the outdoors. Don is survived by his wife of 61 years, Minnie (Wilcox) Merriam; his children, Vicki (Rob) Reutter, Stephen (Sonia) Merriam and Lisa (Mark) Gilbert; his grandchildren, Justin Reutter, Cary Reutter, Jason Gilbert, Lani Merriam, Jacob Gilbert and Kim Merriam; an aunt, Pauline Marshall and several nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to the following healthcare providers who helped make Don's final days more comfortable, Fayetteville Ambulance crew, St. Joseph's Hospital Emergency Department and MICU. Private graveside services will be Friday in Oakwood Cemetery, Chittenango. n lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Wanderer's Rest Humane Association, PO Box 535, Canastota, NY 13032.

G.F. ZIMMER F.H.

CHITTENANGO 687-3366

Date of Death: May 7, 2013