Garnel Melroy Larsen

Garnel Melroy Larsen, 86, of Hyrum passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 11, 2012 as a result of declining health issues related to age. His family was with him as he left this earthly dwelling to return to his Heavenly Father. "Mel" was born at home in Hyrum July 8th, 1926, the eldest of six sons, to Garnel Ernest and Virginia Nielsen Larsen. He graduated from South Cache High School and then from Utah State University in 1950 with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Distributive Education.
Anxious to serve his country, Mel enlisted in the Army Air Corp in 1943, a year before he finished high school. He became a Right Gunner on B-29 bombers, serving on Tinian Island in the Marianas and at Clark Field in the Philippines. He received his commission through ROTC at Utah State University and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. Proud to be an American he shared his patriotic passion by faithfully serving his country in every possible way.
On June 6, 1949, Mel married his sweetheart Charlene Nielsen in the Logan LDS Temple. Their union was blessed with four children, three sons and one daughter.
Mel achieved much greatness in his life with his family being his utmost accomplishment. He so loved his wife Charlene and never tired of singing her praises to anyone who would listen! He found great joy in the calling of fatherhood and especially grand-fatherhood! He faithfully served in many church positions including 7 Bishoprics, High Priest Group Leader, Elder's Quorum President and was an extremely compassionate home teacher to many.
Mel owned and operated his own automotive equipment sales and leasing business for over 30 years.
He served on Hyrum City's Planning and Zoning Commission for 19 years.
He will be missed and lovingly remembered every day for the rest of our lives. Thankfully he left us with numerous joyful memories as a result of the loving personal relationships he formed with each of us.
Preceded in death by his eldest son Craig, both parents, and his brother Luane, he leaves behind his eternal companion Charlene, his sons Corey G. Mary Ann, and Kevin G., and daughter Mary Ann Bob Henke. Also surviving are Mel's four brothers, Clair Dee, Dallas, Kirk, Scott, 12 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. His family would like to thank everyone who had a hand in making his last days as comfortable as possible, including but not limited to: Dr. Agnes Szpunar, Access Home Care and Hospice; Mark, Wendy, Kirk, Glen, Chaz, Adrienne, Bonnie, and both Lindsey P's.
There will be a viewing from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Sunday, August 19th at the Nelson Funeral Home, 162 E 400 N in Logan. Another viewing will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 AM on Monday, August 20th at the Hyrum 2nd Ward Church at 450 East 100 South in Hyrum followed by funeral services at noon under the direction of Bishop Brent Haslam. Interment will be in the Hyrum City Cemetery.