Melvin David Danielson's Obituary
On Tuesday, January 12, 2021, Melvin David Danielson, loving husband, and father of seven children, passed away on his 94th birthday. He was born January 12, 1927, in Bountiful, Utah, to David Stout Parker Danielson and Nellie Watson Danielson. His wonderful sister Dorothy was born three years later to complete the family. Melvin was a corporal in the Army Air Corps assigned to the 40th Heavy Bombardment Wing headquarters from 1945-1947, mainly in Germany. But when he returned home, he followed the career path he chose while in junior high school, where a favorite teacher changed his life. He wanted to have the same influence and effect on youth. He received a bachelor's degree from Weber State University, a master's degree from the University of Utah, and a doctorate degree in Educational Administration from The University of California, Berkeley. He married Tess Broderick from Emery, Utah, in the Salt Lake City temple on September 15, 1948. His first teaching job was in Koosharem, Utah. After a couple of years of teaching, Melvin moved his wife and son to San Leandro, California, for increased opportunities as an educator. He quickly decided he wanted the challenge of administration and management and became a vice-principal. Melvin continued his educational studies during summer vacations, completing academic studies at both Harvard and Rutgers Universities. He became a principal, working at five elementary schools within the same school district during his career. He was loved and respected by both the students, teachers, and district administrators.
Melvin and Tess had seven children: Michael, Karen, Kathy, Diane, Danny, Mark, and David. They created a very loving and happy home. He had a great love of the outdoors, visiting national parks, hiking, biking, camping, and exploring the mountains. He enjoyed road trips to visit family and spent much of his time helping with various projects. Mel was what we would consider a “Renaissance man.” He had an insatiable appetite for learning. Every day he would make a list of things that he needed to do, items to accomplish, and people to visit. He was willing to attempt almost anything, and he was interested in almost everything. He was known to oil paint, garden, build, write poetry, and sing. He was a handyman around the house and could fix or install almost anything. He had an intense love of music, particularly operas and symphonies.
Melvin was known for his ability to teach, administrate, and serve within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was well known for his teaching expertise and knowledge of the Bible and church history. Many would go to his firesides on Old and New Testament archeology and geography. He served in a wide variety of leadership positions where he helped the church grow. He had a strong influence on the youth at church and was known for his ability to strike up a conversation and quickly make a lasting personal connection.
Melvin is preceded in death by his eternal companion, Tess; son, Mark; and daughters, Diane and Karen. Blessed by 37 grandchildren and 80 great-grandchildren, his example and love of family will be his most lasting legacy. He was a role model for his family and all who knew him. He made the most of every day, developed strong goals, and created lasting relationships showing great love to all he knew. He was generous and kind.
He will be sorely missed by those he leaves behind, but we know that there is a wonderful reunion occurring on the other side of the veil with his family, friends, and ancestors.
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