Born December 20, 1912, in Salt Lake City to Hyrum Julius and Christine Bodell Hansen. He married Helen Barich on December 6, 1939. She died December 7, 1988 after being Melvin's companion, friend, and loving wife for 49 years.

Melvin served with the Amphibious Tanks during World War II in the South Pacific where he received two Purple Hearts.

He was a designer, contractor, and developer in Salt Lake for over 50 years. He built custom homes and developed the first condominium (Greystone) in Utah, the first resort condo in Park City (Treasure Mountain Inn). He developed Tara Gardens, Colonial Pines, Graystone Pines and Carriage Lane. His last project was Pheasant Hollow.

Melvin loved golf. He was a past member of Fort Douglas, Oakridge and Alpine. He had a fishing hideout at Flaming Gorge. His happiest hours were spent golfing or fishing with his family and friends.

Melvin and Helen both cherished a warm and loving friendship with the Fathers at the Monastery in Huntsville.

Melvin is survived by his niece, Alice Sargent, who was his secretary, friend and, recently, care-giver; and by his brother, Joseph S. Jensen and wife, Marjorie, who were his best friends. He was preceded in death by brothers, Angus H. and Royal H., and sisters, Melvina Sheets and Mary James.