Melvin Douglas Chamberlain
January 22, 1944 - February 17, 2025
Melvin Douglas Chamberlain returned home to many loved ones and into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Monday, February 17th, 2025, following a valiant fight with leukemia. He left us peacefully and surrounded by all of his children.
Douglas was born on January 22nd, 1944 on a snowy evening in Lehi, UT. After spending years in Lehi and Park City, he made the Salt Lake Valley his home. He emphatically loved Salt Lake City, and his mark has been placed upon it through the many projects he worked on throughout his career as a painting contractor over the last 50+ years. He loved to drive around and point out all of the beautiful buildings and projects that he felt honored and proud to have been a part of. He had an eye for architecture, nature and the finer things in life.
He was authentically himself, his style never changed – always sporting blue jeans, cowboy boots and a bolo tie. He was passionate about racing and going as fast as possible on anything with a motor, and had a particular love for Corvettes and other GM muscle cars – a passion he has passed down to generations of his boys.
His handshake was legendary among all who knew him. He had a big presence and gave grizzly bear hugs. He could make friends with absolutely anyone and believed in everyone. He was overflowing with kindness and generosity, showing us that everyone deserves the same chance, and the importance of giving it to them. He was one hundred percent self-made and his work ethic was unmatched.
He revered all animals, especially dogs and horses, and loved nothing more than spending time with his family – traveling, camping or eating great food together. He took nothing for granted and always helped others see joy in even the smallest things in life. He was true to his faith and had the biggest heart, with a gift for turning friends into family. We will always remember his perfect hair, sun-tanned skin and more than anything we will miss his laugh and those big strong hands. We love you so much. Rest easy Papa Doug.
Doug is survived by his sister Shirley Duvall, Children: Dan, Debbie, Chris (Brenna), Chandra (Nick), Cody (Victoria), Charlie (Dru) and Cameron (Ava). Grandchildren: Mandie, Danny Jr., Shae, Colton, Elise (Mike), Jessica (Tyce), Joe, Zach (Kirstie), Brianna (Trevor), Carissa, Brinden, Cole, Lennox, Vail, Valen, Ewan, Gwen and Knox. Great-Grandchildren: Oakland, Kingston, Haylee, Logan, Landon, Bella, Cole, Thomas and Tegan and is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Anna, many other siblings and loved ones.
Services will be held on Tuesday February 25th and are as follows:
*Classic cars are encouraged and welcome to all services
- 10am – 11am – Open viewing for immediate family and close friends who would like to say their goodbyes at Starks Funeral Parlor located at 3651 South 900 East Salt Lake City, UT 84106
- 11am – 1pm – Closed viewing reception gathering for extended family and all friends at Starks Funeral Parlor located at 3651 South 900 East Salt Lake City, UT 84106
In Loving Memory
Dear Chamberlains family, We were deeply saddened to hear about Doug's passing. He was a truly wonderful neighbor—always kind, friendly, and someone who brought a sense of warmth to our Holladay community. We will always remember how thoughtful he was, especially towards our daughter. His kind and encouraging words and sweet gestures, like surprising her with ice cream, meant so much to us. His presence will be truly missed. Please know that our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. With heartfelt sympathy, David, Elena, and Anastasia
To Doug's family I am so sorry for your loss, I have know Doug since I was 17, he always made me laugh, years later I used to work for him, one of the hardest working guy I have ever known, he will be deeply missed.
To all the Chamberlain family, Please accept my sincere condolences. Jeff Jongsma and I were together for many years. During that time we became close friends with Joe. Then he married Jeannine, Jeff's daughter. After Jeff and I parted ways,I would assume Joe and Jeff remained friends. Over the years we all had good times together. I'm sorry he' gone. He was always nice to me. Not knowing what happened between Jeannine and Joe I can't really say. It's always sad when someone dies. As Meg would say "he'll get his just desserts." We all will. Life is tough. Please accept my condolences. He was a good man at least until I moved away. Regards to all of his family. May Joe rest in peace. Ellen G Arntz
Charlie, although I only met your dad a few times his influence on you was obvious. I remember you telling me (back in the hang out at the Sybrant’s days) that your dad taught you “if your going to wash windows or whatever job you’re doing, do the best job you’re capable of” I’ve remembered that for all the years since. Excellent words to live by. It’s a bummer to lose parents, especially when you’re so young. I’m really sorry. Xoxox Emily & Allen Sybrant
Deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. Doug was our neighbor for many years and was always so cheerful and engaging whenever we'd run into each other in the building (or anywhere in town), We'll miss his smiles, hellos, and chats about our pets.
I was heartbroken to hear this news. Doug was my neighbor and friend from the day he moved in to Aix LaChapell. We had chats out in front of his building and he always offered his help if I needed it and to said just let him know. He was so determined and positive he would beat the leukemia. He was always so proud of his family and I was fortunate to meet and chat with 3 of his boys . I will miss his singing and guitar playing through his open windows in the living room.
My dear uncle Doug, I am so sorry to hear about your passing. My condolences to Aunt Shirley and everyone in the family, You were one of the bad boys and a cool dude. I’ll always remember our dinners together talking about my dad. When I was reunited with the family, And how handsome you are. and you’re great car collection and race cars You Had One Hell of a Ride in your Lifetime RIP 😇 801 633 4099
In Loving Memory
