Donald S. “Don” Merring, 90, of East Main Street, passed away peacefully at his home on June 3,2026.
Don was born January 9th, 1936 in Corning, NY to Robert and Esther (Mossberg) Merring.
Don graduated from Canisteo Central School in 1953 and dedicated his life to serving his family, friends, and community. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and attended the Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD before returning home to receive a degree in Diesel Technology from Alfred State University and build a life centered around public service and helping others.
Throughout his life, Don was deeply involved in the Canisteo community. He was employed by Ingersoll Rand from 1961-1965, then spent the next two decades with the H.P. Smith and Son, Inc. Funeral Home as a funeral director providing comfort and support to families during difficult times.
In 1985 Don was appointed the very First Director of Emergency Services/Fire Coordinator in the newly formed department for Steuben County where he further saved many lives through his work in that capacity. Don was instrumental in establishing the Steuben County 911 Center, becoming the first person to help get the system up and running.
Even after retirement he continued in public service as a bus driver for ARC and dispatcher for the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office and Bath Police Department. It was not unusual to hear his voice over the scanner throughout the day.
Don has been a dedicated member of the Canisteo Fire Department for 66 years, rising to the rank of chief and later becoming fire Commissioner. He was the longest active volunteer fireman in NY state, and held the record for being the oldest fireman to qualify for interior firefighting. During the devastating flood of 1972, Don worked tirelessly day and night assisting those affected and helping his community recover.
His commitment to protecting and serving others earned him the respect and admiration of countless community members. His legacy of service, leadership, and kindness will continue to be remembered for generations.
Don was a member and past Master of Morning Star Lodge #65 F&AM in Canisteo.
In 2001 he received the Fireman of the year award and in 2021
was inducted into the Steuben County Hall of Fame, celebrating his many lifetime accomplishments.
On June 15th, 1957, Don was married to the love of his life, Marcia Roosa. Together over the next 54 years, they raised five children and built a family that remained the center of his life.
Until her untimely death in 2011, Don and Marcia spent winters as “snow birds” in Fort Myers Florida where they had their close knit group of friends that they would spend time with, the Schnurles and Babbitts.
In 2013, Don reunited with and married his High School classmate, Betty Doorley-Angell. Don and Betty shared many wonderful years together and built a beautiful life filled with love, companionship, and cherished memories.
In addition to his late wife Marcia, Don was preceded in death by his beloved grandson and fellow volunteer firefighter, Matthew David Merring.
In addition to his wife Betty, he is survived by his brother Richard Merring, 4 sons, Tom (Virginia) Merring, Eric “Rick” (Belinda) Merring, David Merring, Dana (Lynda) Merring and one daughter, Lynda (Doug) Drake, 3 stepchildren, Timothy Angell, Philip (Sandi) Angell and Heather (Robert) Adams, 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
Don’s life was defined by service, dedication, and love for his family and community. He leaves behind a legacy that will not soon be forgotten and a community made better because he was part of it.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours Sunday from 1-4 pm with a Masonic Service at 4 pm at the Canisteo Fire Dept. South Main Street, where funeral services will take place Monday June 8 at 11:00 am. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery in Canisteo with military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Canisteo Fire Dept. Building Fund, 14 South Main Street, Canisteo NY 14823.
Arrangements are in care of the H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home in Canisteo.
A full and complete obituary can be read online along with shared condolences and memories at hpsmithandsonfuneralhome.com
