Douglas M. MERRIFIELD

MERRIFIELD, Douglas M.

Douglas M. Merrifield, 78, passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013. He was born in Darien, to the late Roy and Grace Merrifield. He is predeceased by his two older brothers Donald and Jack. He graduated from Avon Old Farms High School and attended college. As a child he was fascinated with horses and became an accomplished jumper rider. His parents purchased River Farms in Avon and he began giving riding lessons. River Farms became a thriving business. His ability was amazing, children won championships at many horse shows including Eastern State Exhibition and Madison Square Garden. While in business at River Farms he began to purchase local real estate properties to house his farm help. Expanding his real estate enterprise, Doug moved into the Newport, RI market. He successfully started a real estate brokerage that he owned and operated named Heritage Properties Real Estate with his partner Nancy Lee Wright. They had three offices located in Newport, Jamestown, and Portsmouth RI. While in Newport he opened an antique store and renovated many properties. He lived in several of the properties he restored including a stunning Carriage House, "Bridle Path", overlooking the water. Furthering his position for business adventures he purchased and renovated a hotel in Barre, MA and built up an exceptional restaurant and bar business. Among these business ventures he became an avid antique collector and dealer. He owned, operated, and sold several antique stores in RI, CT, and FL. Moving back to Avon, CT he continued purchasing local real estate and renovating properties until the time he passed. Doug is survived by his beloved and dearest life long friend of 55 years, Diane Clark of Avon, and her daughter Katharine Brown of Daytona Beach FL; his sister-in-law, Beverly Merrifield of Wethersfield; three nephews, John Merrifield of East Hampton, Mark Merrifield of Lewistown, PA and Doug Merrifield of Glastonbury; and a niece Paige Merrifield of Westbrook. He was loved by many and will never be forgotten. Private services will be held at the Vincent Funeral Home in Canton. Burial will be private. Please visit www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online condolences.