Duane R. Merrill, 70, of Collins passed away peacefully at home with family at his bedside on Monday, May 21, 2018. He was born on September 1, 1947 in Gowanda, the son of the late Morris and Doris (Henry) Merrill.
Duane graduated from Gowanda Central School and Purdue University with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Later, he worked for Paul Krause Farm Equipment in Collins for many years.
Duane was an active community member involved with Gowanda Little League for over 35 years. He attended all of the school sporting events, plays, parades, and festivals. Duane was also a huge Buffalo Bills fan. He enjoyed bowling, gardening, chicken BBQs and senior activites.
"Mr. Merrill," as everyone has known him, will be deeply missed by family and all that have been lucky enough to have known him over the years.
Duane is survived by his daughter, Rachel (Brett) Ruff of Perrysburg; and four grandchildren, Taylor, Mason, Logan, and Morgan. Also surviving are two sisters, Diane (Ernest) Humek of Chicago, IL and Darlene Elliot of Battle Creek, MI; a niece, Dianna; and three nephews, Brian, Jason and Richard.
Family will receive friends on Friday, May 25 from 4-6 p.m. at the Mentley Funeral Home Inc., 105 East Main St. in Gowanda. Burial will be in Forestville Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Gowanda Little League.
By the Observer
