Melvin R Hudman July 14, 1932 - December 1, 2024

Melvin R Hudman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed community leader, passed away peacefully at his home in Spanish Fork, Utah, on December 1, 2024, at the age of 92. He returned with glory to his Heavenly Father, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.

Born on July 14, 1932, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to William Alvin Hudman and Alice May Holley Hudman, Mel was the fourth of five children. He graduated from Ucon High School in 1950, earned his associate degree from Ricks College, and later completed his bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry at Brigham Young University (BYU). While working at the BYU dairy farm, Mel met Shirley Barney, the love of his life. They were sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on February 23, 1962.

Mel’s career was marked by his deep passion for agriculture and community service. He proudly owned and operated a successful dairy farm in Spanish Fork. In partnership with his lifelong friend VerNon Frazier, he co-founded VerMel Enterprises, a thriving dairy equipment business. When his health necessitated a change, Mel became General Manager of Premium Oil in Spanish Fork, later accepting an accounting position at Community Press in Orem.

In 1999, Mel was appointed Utah County Treasurer, where his exceptional leadership earned him the respect of colleagues across the state. He was re-elected twice and honored as County Treasurer of the Year in 2006, retiring in 2007 after a distinguished career in public service.

Mel’s unwavering commitment to his community extended far beyond his professional roles. A dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club, he served as Lieutenant Governor for the Utah-Idaho Region. He held leadership roles with the Utah State Fair and Utah County Fair and was recently named Utah Citizen of the Year. A proud Republican, he served as a state and county delegate, advocating for his community at every opportunity.

Mel’s faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and unwavering testimony of the restored gospel guided his life. He served as a full-time missionary in the New Zealand Auckland Mission from 1953 to 1956, cherishing the lifelong friendships he formed there. His fellow missionaries were some of his closest friends throughout his life. His service continued in leadership roles after his mission, including as a teacher, member of a bishopric and Stake High Councilor.

A devoted supporter of BYU athletics, Mel was a season ticket holder for football and basketball and a founding donor for the construction of LaVell Edwards Stadium and the Marriott Center.

Above all, Mel cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Shirley; his four children, Lon Hudman, Sandi Miller, Ryan Hudman, and Shelly Mansfield; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Donald Hudman, Wendell Hudman, Lola May Shippen, and Beth Torgenson.

Mel’s life was a testament to hard work, faith, and service. He leaves behind a profound legacy that will inspire all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 7th at 11 am at Walker Mortuary, 187 S Main Street in Spanish Fork. A viewing will precede the funeral beginning at 9:30 am. Interment will follow at Salem Cemetery.