MILO – Donald Sherman Merrill, 83, passed away peacefully at his home in Milo on Nov. 14, 2021.
He was born Donald Ray Sherman in Masardis, Maine, on April 15, 1938, to Carl and Jessie (MacDonald) Sherman. At the age of eight, he was adopted by Philip and Virginia (Tallman) Merrill of Madison, Maine. He graduated Madison High School in 1957, attended MCI, and studied Forestry at Nichols College.
Over his lifetime, he ran the Esso gas station in Milo, was a foreman for Blue Rock Industries during the building of I-95, and serviced heavy equipment for the Great Northern Paper Company as a diesel mechanic. He managed livestock on “The Merrill Family Farm” and worked in the woods, yarding firewood with draft horses.
A work injury led him to meet a sweet, young, nurse named Deanne Elizabeth Peakes, at Eastern Maine General Hospital in 1964. They married on Aug. 21, 1965, and had recently celebrated their 56th anniversary prior to his passing. It was because of Deanne he was able to remain at home during his declining health, spending quality time with family and friends.
His love of horses brought him to many horse pulling events all over Maine, and it was here he was introduced to his beloved Piscataquis Valley Fair. He was involved with the Fair for over 45 years, holding multiple roles within the organization, including several appointments as President.
He was a member of the Masons, Euclid Lodge #194, A. F. & A. M. in Madison, Maine, receiving his 50-year pin in 2016. He was a member of Anah Shrine in Bangor, Maine, working on and enjoying projects with the Second Section. He was also a member, and Past Patron, of Aldworth Chapter #39 of Milo, Maine, recently receiving his 50-year pin and life membership.
Don was best known for his outgoing personality and his ability to make friends and laughter everywhere he went. He also knew, and used, every backroad in the state, and if you ever had a backroad ride-along, he could accompany each one with a colorful story or life experience.
In addition to his wife, Deanne, he is survived by his daughter, Darcy Merrill, grandson, Jacob Redmond, both of Dover-Foxcroft, granddaughter Hillary Redmond of Harmony; son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Victoria Merrill, of Boca Raton, Fla., granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Taylor and Brandon Teachey, of Delray Beach, Fla.; daughter, Dina Merrill, of South Portland; sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Mickey Cotton, of Bahama, N.C.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he held very dear.
He was predeceased by his biological and adoptive parents; brothers and sisters-in-law, Glen and Pat Sherman, Carl and Rita Sherman, Derle and Anne Sherman; brother, Terry Sherman; sister and brother-in-law, Maxine and Bill Dyer; as well as his best friend from Madison, Keith Blackwell.
The family would like to thank the staff at Northern Light Mayo Hospital, the Cancer Center of Maine, and Beacon Hospice – specifically Pam, Erica, and Bretannie. The family is especially thankful for all the love and support from their friends and neighbors, too numerous to list.
Graveside and Masonic Services will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 12 p.m., noon, at Evergreen Cemetery in Milo, Maine. A reception will follow at Three Rivers Kiwanis Hall, Milo, Maine.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Condolences and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Dyer’s Hope House Food Pantry, Milo, Maine.

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