Merrill Christian Desrosiers, 81, of Holyoke, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at Linda Manor in Leeds, MA. Born on November 9, 1943, in Holyoke, Merrill was a lifelong resident of the city until transitioning to Leeds. Merrill was educated in the Holyoke public schools and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as a helicopter mechanic and mail clerk while stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, he and his late wife Judy owned and operated Desrosiers Floor Covering in Chicopee, MA, for many years, earning a loyal customer following through their exceptional service and personal commitment. A lifelong and devoted member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Holyoke, Merrill served faithfully as an altar boy, youth group leader, Bethel Bible instructor, vestry member, and even installed the church flooring. For many years, Merrill took great joy in providing live lambs for the church’s annual Christmas pageant. Merrill was also a member of the Holyoke Revolver Club. He was a true gentleman, known for his kind, generous, and witty nature. Merrill and Judy frequently hosted parties for friends and family alike at their home. They were married from 1966 until Judy’s passing in 2021, sharing more than 54 years of devotion to each other. Merrill loved to dress up for special occasions, go dancing with Judy, and celebrate life with those around him. He enjoyed cheering for the New England Patriots, collecting Patriots memorabilia, participating with Judy in bowling leagues, boating, taking cruises, and numerous travel adventures. A cherished family tradition was their joyful and unique birthday song; sung around tables and over long-distance phone lines to brighten the special day of those he loved. Merrill and Judy were deeply involved in their children’s and grandchildren’s lives, traveling long distances to support their many events and milestones. Merrill leaves behind a loving family: daughter Linda Solimine and her husband Glen of New York, NY; grandson Philip Solimine and his wife Annalise of Woodinville, WA; granddaughter Carolyn Solimine of Albany, NY; and grandson Peter Solimine of New York, NY; daughter Sharon Molleur and her husband Thomas of Holyoke, MA; granddaughter Nicole Molleur of Yorkville, IL; and granddaughter Corrie Molleur of East Hampton, CT; and son Merrill Desrosiers Jr. and his wife Cathy of West Springfield, MA, along with grandson Joseph Desrosiers and granddaughter Mary Cate Desrosiers. He is also survived by his brother Ralph Desrosiers and wife Christine of Keene, NH. Merrill was predeceased by his beloved wife Judy, as well as his siblings Leo Desrosiers, Donald Desrosiers, and Marilyn Nadeau. Visiting hours for family and friends will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 pm at Grise Funeral Home in Chicopee, MA. A funeral service will be celebrated at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Holyoke on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 am. Following the service, a private burial will be held for immediate family. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Linda Manor in Leeds for the compassionate and professional care provided to Merrill. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, 110 Cherry Street, Holyoke, MA 01040, in honor of Merrill’s life and service.