Obituary Notice – John D. Merrill, Sr.

FORESTVILLE: John D. Merrill Sr., 83, of Pearl Street, Forestville, died Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Dunkirk Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Dunkirk, following a short illness. He was born in Silver Creek on December 19, 1942, the son of the late John Merrill and Nellie (Kniese) Merrill Benchley.

  John was a graduate of Forestville Central School, Class of 1960 and worked as a Crane Operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 17, Buffalo, where he was involved with building Rich Stadium, Key Bank Center, Roswell Park, Walden Galleria, McKinley Mall and others. John served in the Army during 1964 – 1966 as an SP5. He also worked for the family business- Benchley Construction and owned & operated many restaurants around the area. John was a member of Hanover Lodge #152 F&AM, Forestville Order of Eastern Stars, Chapter #247, J. Carter Knapp American Legion Post #953, Forestville, The Falconer Moose Lodge, the Forestville United Methodist Church and a former member of the Forestville Fire Department. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and using OC3 dozers.

  Survivors include a daughter Michelle Tanner, of Aurora, CO, a son John (Molly) Merrill, of Fredonia, a sister Beth Benchley, and a brother Cornelius (Pam) Benchley. Also surviving are four grandchildren; Emily & Nathan Merrill and Madison & Ryleigh Tanner. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his stepfather Robert Benchley and son-in-law Todd Tanner.

  There will be no services observed at this time.

  The family suggests memorials may be made to the Forestville Fire Department, Inc, PO Box 299, Forestville, NY 14062. Arrangements are by Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, Forestville. To post condolences or memories go to https://rilesandwoolleyfuneralhome.com.