Melvin Blaine Johns

Melvin Blaine Johns, born January 15, 1926 to James and Bessie Johns in Ogden, Utah passed away peacefully in his sleep January 26, 2012. Mel had an adventurous spirit. Following a childhood of working in the family grocery store, he proudly joined the US Navy to serve his country strapped to the wing of an airplane taking photographs during WWII.

Upon returning from the war, he furthered his education, met and married Carol York. Following Carol's unexpected passing he married Louise White (later divorced) and together they had the greatest gifts and blessings to Mel his two daughters, Jenny and Melody (DeeDee). Mel worked in the cutting edge of technology and had promising careers at Tooele Army Depot, Lockheed, and Novell as a consultant. Following retirement, he returned to his childhood roots and worked as a cashier for Smith's Marketplace enjoying the day to day interaction with their customers over the last 10 years.

His adventurous and "don't tell me no" attitude lead him to try several entrepreneurial businesses and fed his passion for flying. Next to his love for his daughters and family nothing compared to his love for flying his own airplane in - no matter what country's air space he may be crossing into.

He is survived by his greatest treasures in this world daughters, Jenny McKay (Matt) and Melody Barkley (BJ); grandchildren, Aubree (Jacob), Briana, Braedyn, Hannah, Braxton and Robert; step-grandchildren, Kamber, Evan and Weston; and his dogs, Tess, Gena and Winnie. Also survived by brother, Darrell Johns (Mona); sister, Anitta Furlong (Doug); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by wife, Carol; parents; older siblings, Lamont, Robert, Jennabee; and niece, Melody.

Friends and family will miss his sharp mind, frank way of sharing his opinion, crooked mischievous grin and hearty chuckle when telling a story. He was often described as a "true character" you couldn't help but love.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mount Olympus Ward, 4635 South Lanark Road (3315 East). Friends and family can visit Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Holbrook Mortuary, 3251 South 2300 East, and at the church Tuesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment: Orem City Cemetery. Messages and tributes to the family can be posted at: www.holbrookmortuary.com