Melvin Park Carter

In the tranquil hours at 5:30 am on April 20, 2024, Melvin Park Carter peacefully transitioned into his eternal rest. He drew his last breath at the young age of 80, just three days short of his 81st birthday. Born on April 23, 1943, Melvin's journey came to a close. He is leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. 

A man of faith, Melvin was a steadfast member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The month before he died his father whom had passed away five years earlier visited him and talked thoroughly to him and said he would see him soon. At 5:30 am Utah time Bonnie was awakened by a bird chirping at her window, she knew something had happened and immediately called the nurses station.  Melvin had just passed away. At the same time in Hawaii, awakened at 1:30 am his sister knew something had happened.

 Melvin had been suffering from many illnesses for last four years.  His health gradually deteriorated to the point that he was admitted to Parkway on hospice.
 
 Melvin married Bonnie Lee Harmer on May 10, 1996, in Payson, Utah. They were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Mt. Timpanogos Utah Temple, American Fork, Utah on May 27th, 1998. Bound in eternal love, Melvin and his devoted wife, Bonnie Lee Harmer Carter, shared 27 precious years together.
 
 Melvin's life was a tapestry woven with threads of service and dedication. Melvin served honorably in the Air Force and Army for over two decades.
 
 Melvin then started his beloved journey of driving semi trucks. “Truck Driving was in his blood.” After Bonnie married him, they found solace on the open road. Bonnie was by his side and they traveled from the West coast of California to the southern coasts of Georgia and everywhere in between. Finally, Bonnie said it’s me or the truck.
 
 His employment then led him to work as a janitor in Spanish Fork, Salem, and Payson Utah High Schools for seven years and then he retired. The students loved him and he loved them.
 
 Bonnie and Melvin were well known for their love of karaoke. All their friends joined in this love. Every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm he would watch “Heartland” and various sporting events. His dear Bonnie would go into their bedroom and put earphones on while listening to music to drown out the sound of the TV or go visiting all the residents in their complex. However, when it came to turning down the TV or changing the channel his good nature changed! You see he was very hard of hearing.
 
 Melvin loved eating. His favorites were spaghetti and mashed potatoes, toast and jelly and banana pie! Routinely, mornings included cold or hot cereal.  Milk was his choice of drink and he would consume up to a half a gallon a day.
 
 Everyone loved Melvin and Bonnie. They had so much love and joy in the company of his community wherever they lived. For many years, they lived by dear neighbors and their adorable children. They surrounded him with warmth and affection. Memorable for his quick wit and jovial spirit, Melvin’s playful moments will be cherished and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing a laugh with him.
 
 Melvin and Bonnie had an unbelievable love for animals especially their precious dog  “Teddy Bear” who was waiting patiently for him on rainbow bridge.
 
 Melvin will forever be remembered by his wife Bonnie Lee and so many more.  Survived by his children - Tammy Banks, Chad Taylor, David Taylor, Kevin Carter and stepdaughter Elena Edwards, sister Barbara Sandstrom, sister-in-law Lucille Carter, and his favorite uncle, Billy. His spirit, filled with love and generosity, touched the lives of all who knew him.

 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, starting at noon at Aspen Meadows Third Ward in Spanish Fork, Utah. Military Honors will be at the Payson City Cemetery immediately following the Service.

As we gather to honor his memory, let us reflect on the legacy of a man who embraced life with open arms and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

 In this time of sorrow, we offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Melvin Park Carter. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories we hold dear. "To Eternity and Beyond!"  For this knowledge and Belief we are THANKFUL!