John Francis Strileckis, of Melrose, died unexpectedly on Oct. 1, 2016 at the age of 51. John was born & raised in Melrose and a graduate of Melrose High School, Class of 1985. He was lifelong Melrose resident and worked as a Bagger for Stop & Shop in Saugus for over 20 years. John was very active in Melrose and played softball for the Special Olympics for 25 years. John was the Assistant Coach for the Purple Team in the Melrose Women's Softball League. He worked a Blue Bell Cleaners in Melrose and volunteered at the Lincoln School in Melrose for many years. John was a avid Boston Sports fan and loved his Dallas Cowboys. He was the cherished son of Anthony L. & the late Dorothy M. (Nicosia) Strileckis of Melrose. Loving stepson of Elizabeth (Burri) Strileckis. Caring brother of William A. Strileckis & his wife Edna of Easton, Anthony L. Strileckis, Jr. & his wife Terrie of Altamonte Springs, FL, Andrew M. Strileckis & his wife Shelly of Sudbury, Gregory A. Strileckis & his wife Amy of Melrose and the late Paul E. Strileckis. Former brother in law of Maureen Strileckis of Lynn. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces & nephews. Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, on Thursday, Oct. 6th from 4-8PM. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home on Friday, Oct. 7th at a 9AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary's Church, Herbert St., Melrose at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to EMARC, 26 Princess St., Wakefield, MA 01880 or Melrose Rotary Club, P.O. Box 761196, Melrose, MA 02176.