Our beloved Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and Friend, Melvin L. Blaney, passed away peacefully at the age of 80 on February 24, 2025, at his home in Payson Utah. Mel was born on August 15, 1944, in Murray, Utah, to William “Ted” Alfred Blaney and Ruby Gessell.

Mel grew up in Union, an unincorporated community east of Midvale, where he learned the value of hard work. He was a proud West Jordan beet digger, where he excelled and lettered in baseball, basketball, and football.

Throughout his life, Mel created his own opportunities, by starting his own businesses: Mel Blaney Construction, Blaney Drywall, Blaney Tree Services, and farming and ranching out on West Mountain.  He earned a reputation for his excellent craftsmanship, attention to detail, and integrity. Throughout the years Mel made many good friends. He was loyal and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Mel loved coaching his kids in baseball and basketball. He was always ready to play catch or shoot some hoops and loved watching them excel. He not only taught them the fundamentals of the game but also the values of perseverance, teamwork, and integrity. His presence on the field and court was a testament to his deep love for his family and his desire to see them grow into strong, hard-working individuals.

He enjoyed river rafting, fishing in both lakes and rivers, and an especially memorable trip fishing with his sons and cousin in Alaska. He also enjoyed riding his horses and camping in the high Unitas. In his later years he enjoyed traveling and visiting all of the temples along the way. He loved our Savior and tried to continually improve and grow closer to Him. He cherished his opportunity to work in the temple. Most Friday nights Mel attended the temple with his friends, Vern, Paul and Ruth.

Mel is survived by his children: Ted (Reva) Blaney, Janene Siteman, Lisa (Matt) Tobey, Mellie (Dan) Rosenbalm, David (Farrah) Blaney, and April Wolf (Peter), and his sisters, Valene Burton and Marie Murray. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older sister, Ruby Juanita Blaney, and his sons, Lawrence Lloyd Blaney and Daniel Lloyd Blaney. He is also survived by his loyal companion, Bear, his golden retriever who went everywhere with him.

Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of love, faith, and self-improvement will live on in the lives of those he touched. Mel’s family would like to extend their gratitude to all who have loved and served him, especially his many friends and neighbors.

We warmly invite friends and loved ones to join in celebrating his extraordinary life. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Prior to the service, there will be a viewing from 10:00-10:45 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Chapel, 274 South Main, Payson, Utah. Following the service, Mel will be laid to rest at Payson City Cemetery, 400 North 800 East, Payson, Utah.

The funeral service will be streamed live. Please return to Mel's memorial page shortly before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025, and click on the link below.

Melvin Lloyd Blaney Funeral Service