DDD 2013: 'Faith – An Experience of Love Received'

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Melanie Boren Dern

October 20, 1954 ~ November 21, 2024

Melanie Boren Dern, 70, of Herriman, passed away unexpectedly on November 21, 2024. She was born on October 20, 1954 in Salt Lake City to John Henry and Vera Maxine Boren.

She traveled the world with her family at a young age, starting with a voyage across the ocean to England on the Queen Mary. At the age of 8, she returned to America, where she lived with her family in Holladay. It was at that time that she met her lifelong friend June Hansen.

After a chance encounter at Lindsey Gardens in September 1972, she met the love of her life, Deveraux Riley Dern. They were together for nearly seven years before marrying on January 20, 1979. They went on to have three children and provided the warmest and most loving home.

Melanie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a homemaker and family pillar known for her love, kindness and genuine concern for everyone. She taught those in her life to always be kind and was a ray of light with the most beautiful smile. Outside of homemaking, Melanie was an accomplished hairdresser, where she enjoyed making people feel beautiful. She went on to work at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father John Norman.

Melanie was passionate about life. She was always eager to experience anything new.  She was an avid baker. Family, friends and neighbors looked forward to her Christmas cookies. Melanie cherished her time with her family. She made every occasion memorable, from Sunday dinners to Christmas celebrations. But her most important role was being a grandmother. She nurtured her grandchildren’s talents and supported their dreams.

Melanie is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years, Deveraux; their three children Dustin (Ashley) Dern, Ashley (Dak) Harvey, Emily Dern; and her precious grandchildren Zachary, Claire, Nolynn and Keaton. She is also survived by her siblings Marilyn Cox and John Boren, along with numerous extended family members.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on December 6, 2024 at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, with a graveside service following at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery.