Melvyn Roy Stauffer

Mel was born in Edmonton, Alberta, on July 16, 1937. He was the first son of Wayne and Inez Stauffer and a big brother to his younger sister, Marian.

Mel spent his childhood in Didsbury, Alberta. He was an active child and enjoyed many sports, including hockey. He had a lifelong passion for learning and excelled in school. He received his MA from the University of Alberta, his doctorate from the Australian National University, and his postdoctoral degree from the University of British Columbia.

After completing his education, Mel moved his family to Saskatoon and became a professor of geology at the University of Saskatchewan. His passion for learning and teaching was obvious throughout his 60-year career at the university. In addition to teaching, Mel was always active in research, publishing many papers and both organizing and leading geological field camps.

When his family thinks of him, they remember his love for traveling, panning for gold and sapphires, his research on tektites, his passion for movies, his avid reading, late-night ice cream, good food, smart women, and his vast knowledge. He was truly a walking, talking encyclopedia.

He had a boundless enthusiasm for life. The smartest person you’d meet, but always the first to play. No one else we knew had a love for dressing up quite like he did. He was kind, non-judgmental, and had a great sense of the ridiculous. Though highly educated, he also appreciated the lighter, sillier side of life.

Mel is predeceased by his parents, Wayne and Inez Stauffer, and his wife, Sharlene Stauffer.

Mel is survived by his wife Shan Stauffer (Stewart), his former wife Reita Widgill, his children Terry (Theresa) Stauffer, Kathy (Bob) Friesen, Randy Stauffer, Devin Peterson, Debbie Peterson, and Tammy Pretty, his grandchildren Kurtis, Tiffany, Aaron, Alyssa, Kelsey, Emily, and Jayda, and his three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Marian and his niece Jenara. Additionally, he is survived by his extended family, including his stepchildren Morgan (Trish) Pierce and Amanda (Marc) Pierce and their children Quinn, Zach, Beau, and Jasmine, as well as Shan’s stepchildren Jim, Gail, Peggy, Greg, and Christine, and their families

Mel leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unforgettable memories. Though his absence will be deeply felt, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.