Stephen John Bekkenhuis passed away suddenly in Saugus, MA on December 11, 2013 at the age of 54, while walking his best friend and faithful dog Brody. Mr. Bekkenhuis was born in Winchester on December 26, 1958 to the late Alan & Mary (Bois) Bekkenhuis, was raised in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High School, Class of 1977. Stephen started his career working in the glass business for J.N. Philips Glass before becoming a member of the Painters & Allied Trades Union Local 1044. He worked as a glazer for the past 15 years on numerous construction jobs in the Boston area. He absolutely loved the New England Patriots and could be seen wearing Patriots clothing any time of year. Stephen was also an old world Boston Sports fan following the Red Sox, Bruins and Celtics over the years. He has been a lifelong resident of Melrose, enjoyed spending summers at Old Orchard Beach since 1982, loved the beach, camping, playing music and was an excellent DJ. Mr. Bekkenhuis also had a love for motorcycles and went to Laconia Bike Week every year whether he had a bike or not. Above all he loved spending time with his family and friends. Stephen was the beloved husband of Michelle A. (McHale) Bekkenhuis. Devoted father of Robert F. & Stephen John Bekkenhuis Jr. both of Melrose and Michael C. Bekkenhuis of Stoneham. Loving grandfather of Gianna. Caring brother of Jack Bekkenhuis & his wife Kathy of Stoneham, Paul Bekkenhuis of Melrose, David Wayne Bekkenhuis of FL and the late Alan Bekkenhuis & his wife Janice of Stoneham. Caring son-in-law of Priscilla McHale of Maine & Frederick A. McHale of Medford. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Wednesday, December 18th at 9AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St. Wakefield at 10AM. Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Tuesday from 4:00-8:00PM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Stephen's name to the American Heart Association, 20 Speen St. Framingham, MA 01701 or www.americanheart.org. Burial: Wednesday, December 18, 2013