David A. Merryman

David A. Merryman, 80, of Canton, passed away on August 11, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Canton on June 19, 1945, to the late Maurice and Myrtle (Housley) Merryman.

Dave was a proud 1962 graduate of Canton McKinley High School and shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy.

Upon returning home, Dave had the responsibility of helping his mom raise his siblings. He also began working for the Timken Company where he held many positions such as a grinder, an instructor and inspector, retiring with 25+ years of service.

In addition to his employment with Timken, Dave also worked as a bus driver for Plain Township and Jackson Township local schools, as well as being a cafeteria monitor for Jackson Township local schools. He drove bus for St. John's Villa and did flower deliveries for Fishers Foods too. If that wasn't enough, he held the position of custodian for multiple local churches.

His involvement in the community did not stop there. Dave was a current member of Woodlawn Church of God, an assistant boy scout leader, den of Indians guide, past member of North Industry Sportsman Club, chairperson of the corn roast for MS, and volunteered for the Perry Band Boosters where he worked the concession stand for over 10 years. He also loved volunteering with the Nazir Grotto where he was loving known as "Bubbles the Clown."

Even though Dave worked tirelessly, he still made time to travel and was blessed with multiple vacations to Stone Harbor, New Jersey with family and friends.

Whether you knew him as David, Dave, or Bubbles, he will always be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor and compassion for others.

Dave is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Nancy (Sell) Merryman; son Zachary Merryman and daughter Heather (Eric) Balizet; grandchildren Logan Elliott, Emma Balizet, and Samuel Balizet; sisters, Debbie Weigraff and Sally (James) Sengos.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his 7 siblings.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 16th from 10 a.m.-11:00 a.m. at the Arnold Funeral Home, 1517 Market Ave. N., Canton, Ohio, 44714.

A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. and conclude with military honors. Dave will be laid to rest privately at Warstler Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Stark County Humane Society, 5100 Peach St NE, Louisville, OH 44641 or Woodlawn Church of God, For the One, 2800 Woodlawn Ave N.W. Canton, OH 44708.

"Fly High with the Eagles……"