Donald Eugene Merchant was born on August 12, 1937, to Harry and Bessie (Kelley) Merchant in Kansas City, MO. He passed away December 21, 2021, in Springfield, MO.

Don was born in Kansas City, MO but he lived his whole life on the family farm in Collins, MO where he raised cattle and pigs. Also, he liked the wilder side of animals and had llamas, emus, and buffalo. In his young adult life, he worked various jobs. Don met his wife Suzanne Barker and got 2 children: Lewis Beach and Lori Walton. To this union 2 more sons were born: Donald B. Merchant and Todd Merchant. In 1971 Don moved mobile homes until his first stroke in 2017, when he had to retire.

He is preceded in death by his parents Harry and Bessie (Kelley) Merchant, grand parents George and Julia Lightner, many aunts, uncles as he was privileged to be raised with. His wife Suzanne of 48 years, a grand daughter Makeeshia Skopec and a grandson, William Merchant.

Don is survived by his sister Opal Beumer, his 4 children Walter Lewis (Jeanine) Beach, Lori (Robert) Walton, Donald Merchant, and Todd (Nena) Merchant. As well as 13 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.