David A. Merchant, 72, of Natrona Heights, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. He was born April 28, 1951, in Natrona Heights, to the late Walter E. and Betty Lou (Welsh) Merchant. Dave was a 1969 graduate of Highlands High School. He retired after 37 years of service from Allegheny Ludlum Steel in Brackenridge. Dave was a member of Guardian Angels Parish Natrona Heights Campus. He was a life member of Hilltop Hose Company, where he was the former chief, president and fire police captain. Dave enjoyed country music, traveling, going out to dinner and loved his dog, Benny. Dave is survived by his wife of 50 years, Diane (Zabinski) Merchant; sons, David (Jean) Merchant Jr., of Natrona Heights, and Robert (Katie) Merchant, of Natrona Heights; and by his brother, Richard W. (Nora) Merchant, of Freeport. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday in the CICHOLSKI-ZIDEK FUNERAL HOME INC., 1522 Carlisle St., Natrona Heights, 724-224-8688, where a parting prayer service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at noon in Most Blessed Sacrament Church. Entombment will be in Mt. Airy Cemetery, Natrona Heights. To send an online condolence, please visit www.cicholski-zidekfh.com.