Eldon Melbourne “Mel” Stephensen quietly passed away while holding Elizabeth’s hand in their home on July 30, 2024 at the age 94.

Mel was born to Eldon Bingham Stephensen and Reva Ann Call on July 27, 1930 in Ogden, Utah. He resided his last 66 years in Fair Oaks, CA.

Mel met his wife of 72 years, Elizabeth Smith, while he was attending San Francisco State College.  They became engaged in the fall of 1950.  Shortly after that Mel left on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter¬-day Saints. He served in the Alberta, Canada Mission for 2 years.

Upon completion of his church mission, Mel and Elizabeth were married on October 24, 1952.  They have 4 children, Eldon Jay, Deborah Ann (Anderson), L. DeWayne and Brian Merrill.  And they also have 11 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter.

Mel taught life science, botany and often directed a Choir at Mill Jr High School in Rancho Cordova, CA.  While teaching at Mills Jr High Mel spent his summers working for California State Beaches and Parks as a Naturalist.  Many of his years as a naturalist he spent hiking the mountains of Donner Park where he shared his knowledge about the natural plants and vegetation in the area.  He also shared his love of history and told stories about the Donner Party.

Mel was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in several bishoprics and high councils over the years that he lived in Fair Oaks.  He also managed the Sacramento Family History Library and loved helping thousands of others in discovering their family heritage.

Mel and Elizabeth served a mission in Denmark for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1993-94. He was known for his beautiful mastery of the piano and his willingness to share of himself both time and talents for the betterment of all who knew him – he will be missed.  Price Funeral Chapel (916-725-2109), directors.