Melissa Varner

Melissa Varner, 50, of Wellsville, Utah, passed away on September 13th, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Melissa was born on March 11, 1976, in Price, UT to Mary Mogensen-Lodeserto and Dennis Mogensen.

Family meant everything to Melissa, and she served as the heartbeat that kept everyone connected. She spent 30 cherished years with her husband Chris who has kept her laughing and has been her rock. She was a mother to three beautiful children- Bree, Tyler and Madi who have brought so much pride and happiness to her as a mom. She served as their ultimate champion, offering unwavering encouragement through every step of life. But, being “Nana” was her favorite title. She found so much joy in her 3 grandbabies- Paislee, Camden and Jonah. They were the light of her world and she was the center of their universe.

Throughout her career, she devoted herself to children who needed extra love and encouragement. She possessed remarkable expertise and skill in her work. Observing her in action meant witnessing students learning to believe in themselves and reach for milestones they didn’t know they were capable of. She was an advocate for every child and she ensured they felt her unwavering love and support every day.

Melissa will be remembered for her compassion and ability to make anyone around her feel important and loved. She had a way of listening and connecting with people that was genuine and heartfelt. She spread love and kindness everywhere she went and left the most beautiful mark on the world.

Melissa is survived by her loving husband, Christian Varner; her three children, Tyler Varner and his partner, Jaimie Ramos, Breeanna Varner and her partner, Brendan Romney, and Madison Varner and her partner, Keygan Ferguson; her grandchildren, Paislee, Camden, and Jonah; her parents, Dennis Mogensen and his wife, Trish Mogensen, and Mary Mogensen-Lodeserto and her husband, Packy Lodeserto; and her siblings, Troy Mogensen, Brittany Hawkins Soos, and Kim Mogensen. She also leaves behind many cherished cousins, family members, and dear friends who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Cache Valley Mortuary, located at 710 W 500 N, Hyde Park, UT 84318.

A visitation will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Cache Valley Mortuary prior to the funeral service.

Following the service, burial will take place at Hyrum Cemetery, located at 525 E Main St.

A dinner will be held at 2:00 p.m. following the burial in Wellsville, located at 660 S 100 W.

We invite family and friends to join us as we gather to honor and remember Melissa’s beautiful life.