George Malcolm Andersen
February 4, 1952 - October 12, 2017
George Malcolm "Little Mel" Andersen, 65, loving husband, father and Papa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, October 12, 2017, after a heroic fight against ALS. Mel was born on February 4, 1952 to Malcolm George "Big Mel" and Lena Hodgson Andersen. He instantly became the baby of the family, the only boy and the best birthday present his Dad would ever receive. Mel grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, attended Granite High School where he participated in track and football. He was a member of the 1969 State Championship Track Team and graduated in 1970. After High School he attended the University of Utah.
Mel married his soul mate Linda on March 29, 1980. They remained inseparable for the next 37 years. Mel had a passion for fishing that was unmatched. He was truly gifted in this sport. He was happy and eager to share his love of fishing with anyone, as long as they knew it was serious business. He took pride in everything he did, big or small and his work ethic was an example to all, especially his daughters and grand daughters. He loved all genres of music, his favorite band being The Beatles, and had a soft spot for old muscle cars, especially the Chevelle Super Sport. Mel was a huge fan of Skyline Girls Basketball, Softball and Cheer, Utah Flash Girls Basketball, Utah Bullets Softball and Power Plus Productions, where he spent numerous hours enjoying and watching his granddaughters pursue their dreams.
Mel is survived by his wife Linda (who cared for him so dearly); his two daughters, Kimberlee (Russ) and Melanie (Adam); his two favorite grandchildren Barrett and Bryce and his four sisters, Jeri (Kent) Beckstrom, Linda (Bill) Loveland, Judie (Lee) Smith and Sandi (Craig) Eby. Preceded in death by his parents.
Mel's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the Doctors, Nurses and Aides at the University of Utah Hospital. They took such tender care of Mel and showered him and the rest of his family with love during this most heartbreaking time.
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 20, 2017 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Starks Funeral Parlor on 3651 South and 900 East. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building. A Funeral Mass in his honor will be celebrated Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 11:00 am at Saint Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, 1375 East Spring Lane, followed by a luncheon where everyone can gather, reminisce and celebrate him.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the ALS Rocky Mountain Chapter in Mel's honor. A cure needs to be found so others will not have to suffer this horrific disease. http://webco.alsa.org
Please check back for an extended obituary.
In Loving Memory
Sending our love from our family to yours. So sorry for this tender time for your family. The love felt from your family is something very special. That will continue on forever. You are blessed for the life and love you have shared. I hope you feel his presence around you. His love shines in each of you. Love Uncle Mel and love each of you.
Allison Banry
Saratoga Springs,, Ut
Linda, I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. I haven't seen you guys for many years but I always remember Mel was such a kind man with a quick smile and a great laugh.
Tracy Tomich
Riverton, Ut
Linda, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I was totally shocked to hear of Mel's passing. So sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family. Sally
Sally A Dixon
nan, nan
Linda, Brian and I send our deepest condolences. God Bless your family always. Love Julieta and Brian
Julieta Harvey
Englewood, Co
To the family of Mel, I am so sorry to hear of Mel's passing. I worked with Mel at Brody Chemical and found in him a mentor, a friend, a leader. He is a good man and will be missed. Please accept my deepest condolences and love and may the good Lord bring peace to your family.
Michael Kimball
South Jordan, Ut
My sincere condolences to you all. Keeping you all in my prayers.
Pat peterson
Meridian, Id
Linda, Kim, and Melanie - Thinking of you all at this time of loss. You are a great family and I feel fortunate to know you all. I know how much Mel will be missed. He could not have had a more loving, compassionate and caring spouse and family. Although the separation is difficult, you will see and be with him again. May God bless and comfort you at this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers always and I send my love to you all!
Kelly Criddle
Syracuse, UT
To Mel's Family, I worked with Mel at Overstock on many project for both the Branding and Events team. He was the delight of the Warehouse! So easy to work with and so very kind. I truly missed having him there. Things were never the same without him. Blessing to your family as I know what an incredible human being he was.
Nicole Bondoc
Sandy, UT
We are both so saddened for your loss. Mel was a super fun, nice, kind ,happy and wonderful person. Linda, you and your daughters are in our thoughts.
Joe and Cindy Nay
West Jordan, UT
Dear Linda and family, We are all sending prayers and love to all of you during this time of your loss. All the holidays and get togethers will be missing one more angel! Rest in peace, Mel! God Bless, Linda, Tessa, Marc and Jay Potvien
Linda Potvien
potvien3@msn.com, UT
So many fond memories of fishing for Stripers with Mel. Little does he know how much of an impression he has made on me in my life, thank you Mel. God bless and I hope your family finds peace in these trying times. Gone too soon.
Corbin England
Salt Lake, UT