STONINGTON: Alan Merritt Ross, a long-time resident of Stonington CT, died at home February 9, 2023, after several years of declining health. He was 69. Al was born in Pennsylvania, raised in Willow Grove, PA, and settled in the Stonington area in the early 1970s. He worked on the Stonington fishing pier, crewed fishing boats, did custom carpentry both independently and for New England Restorations—all the while building and adding to his 14 acre homestead on Wolf Neck Road. The “Swamp” was the scene of many parties, family reunions, camp outs, and Fourth of July celebrations. He loved his many dogs and “critters”— frequently chickens and sheep, but also goats, pigs, and guinea hens. He was passionate about folk music and classic movies and had a large collection of LPs, CDs, and DVDs. He is survived by his two brothers, Dave and Ken, and by his former wife Susan. Family and friends will gather for an open house celebration of his life on Saturday, April 22, at 362 Farmholme Road, Stonington, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring photographs to share and stories to tell.