Melvin Saunders

In loving memory of Melvin Harlo Saunders who passed away on December 24, 2024.

Melvin “Mel” was born October 22, 1934, to William Harlo Saunders and Mary Mangum Saunders in Corinne, Utah. He was the oldest of ten children.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ann (Jones) Saunders; his parents, William and Mary; his siblings, Cecil, Harvey, David, and Vinola; his son, William “David” Saunders; a grandson, Jordan Saunders; and a great grandson, Ridge Bird.

Mel spent most of his growing-up years in St. Ignatius, Montana, a place filled with loving memories on the farm. He was a cowboy at heart, often wearing a cowboy hat, playing his guitar, and loving country music. This was Dad.

Dad met our mom, Carol, in Blackfoot, Idaho, and soon fell in love. They courted a short time before being married on February 16, 1955, which marriage was later solemnized in the Cardston, Canada LDS Temple. They were married for 69 years. They had five children: William “Dave” (Tammy), Melvin Jr. (Debi), Barbara (Marty), Vickie (Lorin), and David Jr. (Tina). From these children, Dad and Mom were blessed to have 19 grandchildren, 55 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. Their family was the most important treasure in their lives and Dad was often found saying, “My family makes me the richest man in the world; they are my treasure.” Dad was our family’s role model and our hero.

Dad and Mom held true to their faith. Dad served faithfully in many church callings, including bishop and high councilman. He and Mom served a church mission for the LDS church in Nauvoo, Illinois, where many cherished friendships were made. He loved driving the horses and giving tours about the early history of Nauvoo.

He loved others unconditionally and would often share his time and means in secret with those who were less fortunate. He loved his siblings and would travel frequently to spend time with them, forming a bond that stands as a beautiful example for generations who follow.

Dad’s career was spent primarily as a paramedic. He and one other man were the first paramedics in Idaho Falls. He was considered to be among the best of the best and was recruited by a nearby hospital to work in the ER and ICU while he was working and after he retired. Dad was a gentle giant, always displaying a sense of calm and confidence in difficult situations. He also owned several successful businesses throughout his life, including long-haul trucking, insurance, and as a tour-bus driver from coast to coast. There aren’t many places he hasn’t been.

Kindness was his hallmark, wrapped in unconditional love for everyone. If he knew you, you were his friend. But no one stood between him and his forever-friend and wife, Carol. Just days before his passing, he was asked what he wanted most for Christmas. His answer, “To be with my sweet Carol for Christmas.” And so it was.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road. Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday evening from 6:30-8 p.m. and again Friday morning from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the services. Burial will be in the Ammon Cemetery.

For live broadcast of the funeral service, please see Mel’s obituary page at www.woodfuneralhome.com.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.