Mel Knettel Shoell

July 23, 1936 - December 1, 2019

Mel Knettel Shoell, 83, passed away on December 1st, 2019 in West Valley City, Utah. He was born on July 23rd, 1936, to Father Robert K Shoell and Mother Ivy Rita Snyder Shoell, on a kitchen table in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mel had married the love of his life, Norma Marie Braithwaite on April 18th, 1958. Mel was a dedicated Marine. He joined “SEMPER FI” on June 15th, 1953 and completed his duty June 15th 1957. Upon departure of his “duty of service”, Mel married Norma, and they shared 62 amazing years together. Mel and Norma had 5 kids, Dean, Gary, Sharon, Karen, and Trina. He was a “long-haul” truck driver for decades and became a contractor as well. Mel had driven trucks until the age of 82. He had enjoyed building ship models, going to horse races, fishing, hunting, camping, and spontaneous road trips (as he was known as a human GPS!) but most of all, spending time with his family. Mel is survived by Norma Shoell, 2 brothers, and 4 sisters. He also survived by 5 children, 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, and many others. Mel is preceded in death by his Grandparents, Mother & Father, 2 sisters, and 1 son in law. Mels “celebration of life” will be held on January 18, 2020 12:30pm-3:30pm at: Webster Center 8952 W 2700 S (or 8952 W Magna Main Street) Magna, UT 84044 Please bring memories and Stories. Lunch will be served. Loving Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Friend and Grandpa, thank you for serving our country, and being the best person who came into many peoples lives. You were the best at telling stories. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, the doctors predicted 3 months survival, but with that “SEMPER FI” spirit, thank you for fighting for 14 extra, as our time with you was not complete. Thank you for leaving a mark on each person who entered your life. Your laugh was contagious, and you always had a smile on your face. Each and every day, you will be missed dearly, we love you forever!!