Donald Ray Merryman, age 53, passed away on February 24, 2022 in Chico, California. Donald passed away from complications due to Covid-19 Pneumonia.

Donald is survived by his wife of 32 years, Heather Lynn Merryman, his four children, Amandalee Whitney, Alexandra Lynn, Austin Ray, Audric Thomas and his grandson, Ryder William. He is also survived by his Uncle Tom, whom he considered his Dad, his three brothers, Ronnie, Al and Tommy, his three sisters, Natonya, Francesca and Vanessa as well as his many cousins, in-laws and extended family.

Donald and Heather met as coworkers at Harry C’s Restaurant in Rancho Cucamonga in September 1988 and were married in Upland, California on December 30, 1989.   

Donald  attended The College of Oceaneering where he graduated in 1992 with his degree in Underwater Inspection. Donald only recently moved to Chico, California with his wife. He previously lived in the Coachella Valley for over 28 years where he and his wife raise their family. Donald was well known in the community and had so many friends that he considered family. He and his wife had an open door policy for everyone. All the kids in the neighborhood called him Dad. Donald had a successful billboard and handyman business in the desert. He had been working hard to start his handyman business in Northern California.

Donald was a member of Desert Chapel of Palm Springs for many years and became a member of Southwest Church of LaQuinta when he and his family moved to the east end of the valley. He was a faithful man who did his best everyday to live his best life, laugh as often as possible and love his family and friends. Donald was known for his contagious laugh and sense of humor.

Donald was of American Indian descent and took great pride in his Choctaw Heritage. He had been working on establishing his heritage with the Choctaw Tribe. He loved working out at the gym and passed this love on to his Sons. He loved music and it wouldn’t be a surprise to catch him rocking out to a Bon Jovi song. Donald had a huge love for the Ocean and his 200 gallon salt water aquarium which he built. He and his wife recently purchased a speed boat and he loved to be out on the water as often as possible. Donald was an amazing artist who painted ocean and underwater scapes.

Donald could not pass a homeless person without stopping and giving them a few bucks.  We are asking in Liu of flowers that you please donate to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission at cvrm.org.  This is a cause close to Donald’s heart.

Please join us for Donald’s  Celebration Of Life at Southwest Church, 77701 Fred Waring Drive, India Wells, CA 92210 on May 15, 2022 at 2pm.  

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