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Donald Francis Merrillof Hot Springs, South Dakota, died on Sunday, July 26, 2026
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Donald F. Merrill was the youngest son born to George and Ruth Amelia (Gause) Merrill in Philadelphia, PA on September 22, 1948, joining two older brothers Edward Allen and David.
Don attended schools in Denby, Oral, Hot Springs, Pine Ridge, and Martin, graduating from Martin in 1968. Don liked many of his teachers.
Don married Mae Wilsey on August 22, 1969, in Martin, South Dakota. Born to this union were two sons, Wayne and Russell.
Don worked for Lacreek Electric, at Martin, SD, Golden West Electric at Wiboux, MT, and Golden Valley Electric in Nenana, AK. When he retired from his work he and Mae moved to Hot Springs, SD.
Don enjoyed car shows and going to Cool Deadwood Nights, Devils Tower, and the big two day car auction in Pierce, Nebraska, with his very good friend Carl Bauman. He especially liked Oldsmobiles.
Don and Mae enjoyed camping with family and friends in the Black Hills, mostly at Sheridan Lake, especially when their children were young, and were often joined by the Carl Bauman family.
Don loved his family, and he loved Jesus Christ. After Don accepted Christ, and on a visit back to Martin, he looked up a former co-worker who he had always given a bad time for his religious beliefs and apologized to him. Don was one who would not hesitate to share his faith.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years Mae Wilsey; his sons Wayne (Aubree) Merrill and Russell (Jennifer) Merrill; grandchildren: Wes Merrill, Laynee (Sam) Carstens, Aimee Merrill, Christene (Devon) Smith, McKenzee Merrill, and Taylor James Merrill; his first great-grandchild who will be arriving soon; sister-in-law: June Merrill, and children David and Claire; brothers-in-law: Jeff (Marilyn) Wilsey and Frank (Mary) Wilsey.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ruth (Guase) Merrill; his brothers David and Edward Merrill; and his mother-in-law Lucy Wilsey.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 9, 2026 at Calvary Baptist Church in Hot Springs.
A graveside service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 9, 2026 at Hillside Cemetery near Oelrichs.
Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 954 Hot Springs, SD 57747