10/13/2026
Melvin Arthur Sorensen passed away at his home on September 2, 2026, in the loving arms of his daughter, at the amazing age of 95.
He was born on June 12, 1931, to Arthur and Martha (Gutche) Sorensen in Sturgis, Meade County, South Dakota. He was a joy to his parents and older brother, Elmer. Mel attended grammar school for six years with only six other children. The family moved to Central City, and he graduated from Deadwood High School four years later. At a young age, his family lived on rented farms in the Black Hills. Life was not easy, but they always had plenty to eat and lots of space to explore. He learned to hunt at a young age, and hunting remained one of his greatest joys throughout his life. Even at 94, he was still looking for a big bull elk. He looked forward to hunting every year, especially with his nephew, Mark Sorensen, and his good buddy, Mike Thompson.
Mel was active in 4-H as a child. He showed Hereford steers and received many awards. He also found odd jobs as a youth, and the money he earned from the fair and his work allowed him to buy nice clothes, boots, and a car. Some of that hard-earned money went toward buying his mother the latest kitchen gadgets to make her life easier.
After graduation, Mel enlisted in the Army in 1951 and served in Chicago, Hawaii, and Okinawa, Japan. He was a sergeant and a radio operator. Mel served until 1954 and was very proud to have served his country.
When he returned home from the Army, Mel went to work at Homestake Gold Mining Company, where he met his future bride, Lela Elizabeth Reinecke. She was giving tours of the mine at the time. They fell head over heels in love and were married on December 26, 1954. Their son, David, was born in 1955. Around this time, Mel also decided to attend college and earn a teaching degree. Their daughter, Lori, arrived in 1959, the same year Mel graduated from Black Hills State University.
Mel moved his family to Spray, Oregon, in late 1959, where he taught school, coached sports, drove the activity bus, and helped with school repairs. He also enjoyed hunting there. In 1961, he moved the family to Baker City, Oregon, where he began teaching junior high wood shop before moving to the high school. He taught wood shop, drafting, and work experience while also coaching. Mel loved teaching and his students. He retired in 1991 after 31 years.
After retirement, Mel and Lela traveled around America with friends and enjoyed many camping and fishing trips. They both loved spending time with their family and spoiling their grandchildren. Mel had an amazing garden when they lived in Pine Creek, and they spent their golden years enjoying nature. They loved dancing and did so every chance they got! Mel was a member of the Jaycees. They put on the Fourth of July fireworks display at the football field with large crowds in the stands. It was very exciting. Mel was also a member of the Elks for 56 years. He joined Baker Rural Fire and served as a board member, instructor, and firefighter for 25 years. He loved serving his community.
Mel felt very lucky to live in such a wonderful town, surrounded by beautiful mountains. He woke up every day feeling blessed to be where he was. He lived a healthy, long life. Mel was a good man and will be greatly missed.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to all the wonderful people who cared for and loved him until the end so he could remain in his own home.
Mel is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Jim Wirth; granddaughters, Angie (David) Hays, Kim (Corey) Jonas, and Lanae (Ryan) Wiater; grandson, Josh Sorensen; great-grandchildren, James (Shelby) Hays, Austin Hays, Logan Jonas, Clara Jonas, and Violet Sorensen; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is also survived by his beloved friend of eight years, Margo Kenworthy.
Mel was preceded in death by his wife, Lela Sorensen; son, David Sorensen; grandson, Brian Sorensen; parents, Arthur and Martha Sorensen; and brother, Elmer Sorensen.
Memorial contributions will fund a scholarship for a student in the vocational department at Baker High School. Contributions may be mailed directly to Baker Elks Lodge No. 338, P.O. Box 347, Baker City, OR 97814, or delivered in person at Mel’s celebration of life. For additional information, please visit www.bakerelks.com.
Please join us as we celebrate Mel’s extraordinary life on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Baker Elks Lodge No. 338, 1896 Second St., Baker City, Oregon. Snacks and his favorite desserts will be served.
