Mel Hardenbrook, age 77, went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 22, 2025 at the Hope West Care Center after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s.

He was born April 26, 1948 in Des Moines, Iowa. Mel graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines and furthered his education at Drake University, earning a degree in business and psychology. His professional life was dedicated to the insurance industry and risk management, specializing in insurance for construction businesses. It was the call of the mountains that propelled him to leave Iowa for Colorado. Specifically, the Denver area where he worked for Transamerica Insurance. The West Slope energy boom was in full swing when he was transferred to Grand Junction to open a branch office. This is where he met his soulmate, best friend and future wife, Flicka, aka, Kenna. They were married in April of 1985. Sadly, they were not blessed with children. However, many acquaintances assured him this can be a blessing too. His work eventually took him to the Front Range, settling in Parker Colorado for 25 years before returning to Grand Junction for retirement. Beyond his career, Mel was passionate about making people laugh, sharing his faith and giving to those in need. He enjoyed golfing, camping, coaching youth football and cherished moments with family and friends. He was inspirational to those around him as he battled the disabling effects of Parkinson’s. This was due to his faith, love of life and sense of humor. Mel is lovingly remembered by his wife, Kenna, his younger brother Patrick, mother-in-law, Kay Coulson and brothers-in-law, Todd (Terri) Coulson and Mike (Linda) Coulson. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mel and Darlene Hardenbrook, siblings Sharon Conrath, Sally Piper, Vicki Sprouse and Mike Hardenbrook. The last year and a half of his life he was blessed to be in hospice through Hope West. A special thank you to Lizz, Lyndsey, Jamie, Emily, Rochelle and Ty who made it possible for him to remain at home during this time and enrich his life.

A memorial service, celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 2:30 PM at Calvary Bible Church, 629 27 ½ Road, Grand Junction, Colorado. A reception will follow at the Chipeta Golf Course Clubhouse, 222 29 Road, Grand Junction, Colorado. The service will also be broadcast live on YouTube on the Calvary Bible Grand Junction channel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope West, honoring Mel’s compassionate spirit.