Melanie Laycock Bastian

Melanie Laycock Bastian, beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on Monday, August 29th. She was undergoing treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, which she fought bravely for 5 months, and was surrounded by her loved ones as her mortal life came to its end.
 
Melanie was born on April 1, 1954 to Hugh and Audrey Laycock of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. She was the 4th of 5 children, having 3 older brothers (Bill, Brent, and Kim) and one younger sister (Roxanne). Her childhood was spent on the family farm where she learned the virtues of hard work, humility and gratitude, all attributes that guided the remainder of her life.
 
Upon finishing high school, Melanie made her way south to attend Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, where she earned a Bachelors Degree in Fashion Merchandising, and though a diligent student, Melanie was also frequently involved in planning social gatherings of all sorts with her classmates, earning her the nickname of "The Party Lady." Later in life, Melanie received an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Utah Valley University. In addition to her academic achievements, Melanie was a remarkably skilled musician, seamstress, and cook, and was quick to share her many talents to comfort or brighten the lives of others.
 
Having grown attached to Utah County, Melanie eventually established her family in nearby Orem and resided there the rest of her life. In 1976, she married Bruce W. Bastian and together they had four sons. The couple divorced in 1993 but remained close. Melanie was an extraordinary mother, and those who knew her best know her life was truly dedicated to her boys, and later to their families. She often quoted 3rd John 1:4 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."
 
At her core, Melanie lived the principle of charity, and found purpose and happiness in giving of her time and resources to numerous local charities, church organizations, educational boards, and community associations. Furthermore, Melanie was an inconspicuous champion for several causes, including women and children in need, music and performing arts, and public education. Never seeking attention or acclaim, Melanie preferred serving behind the scenes, and felt most content in supporting the success of others. She was forever willing to accept assignments of any kind, and felt honored to be of assistance in any form. Always ready with smart suggestions, yet never overbearing in sharing them, Melanie's input was sought often, and her quiet influence made a lasting impact on so many over the years.
 
Melanie is preceded in death by her mother, Audrey Laycock. She is survived by her father, Hugh Laycock, her four siblings, and her four sons: Rick (Heather), Darren (Lisa), Jeff (Cristi), and Robert (Amy). In addition, Melanie was a devoted grandmother to 13 grandchildren, all of whom lovingly referred to her as "Mimi" and each of whom felt individually treasured by their doting grandma. Mimi was tremendously proud of her grandkids, seemingly attending every one of their games, performances, and ceremonies, and saw them as her greatest reward in life.
 
While our hearts are unquestionably broken at this time, we remain in awe of Melanie's courage, her grace, and her unending kindness toward everyone with whom she associated.
 
The Bastian family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and all others involved in her treatment and care during her final months at the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
 
Two viewings will be held for Melanie, on Monday, Sept. 5, 2016 from 5-8 p.m. at 240 W.1800 S. in Orem, UT; and Tuesday, Sept. 6 from 10:00-10:30 a.m. at the Orem Lakeview Stake Center, located at 400 W. 1800 S. in Orem, UT. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Orem Lakeview Stake Center. Interment will be at East Lawn Memorial Hills, located at 4800 N. 650 E. in Provo, UT.

Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Online condolences may be offered at starksfuneral.com.
 
In place of flowers or gifts, Melanie's family encourages donations to the Huntsman Cancer Foundation (huntsmancancer.org), or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (lls.org).