Frederick A. McHale

Frederick Alexander McHale, a lifelong resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 83 years of age.

Fred was born in Stoneham, Massachusetts, on March 3, 1942, to the late Francis and Muriel McHale. He met his first love, Priscilla, in kindergarten, and the two later married and went on to raise four beautiful daughters.

As his family grew, Fred worked various jobs to provide for them, eventually building his own business, McHale Tile & Carpet. He later contracted with Northeastern University, where he worked for over 48 years. Fred was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and pride in providing for his family.

A fun-loving father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Fred cherished time spent with his family. He enjoyed skiing, golfing, trips to the casino, and relaxing at his summer home in Maine.

Fred was the beloved father of Michelle Bekkenhuis and her late husband Stephen, Jacquelyn Connolly and her husband Jimmy, Pamela McHale, all of Melrose, and Christine Mara and her husband Billy of Wilmington. He was the proud grandfather of ten grandchildren: Robert, Stephen, Michael, Bryanne, Jamie, Benjamin, Micaela, Rachael, Lauren, and Joseph, and the devoted great-grandfather of four great-grandchildren: Gianna, Kallie, Mac and Conall.

He was predeceased by his brother Jack McHale, his wife Ginger of Beverly and nephews Ricky McHale, his wife Brenda, Brian McHale and his wife Corinne. Loving brother of Muriel McHale Campbell, her late husband David, and their children Shannon Barrows (husband Lou) and Katelyn Boghos (husband Dom), and Anne Marie McLean. He was funny Grunkle Fred (great uncle) to great nieces and nephews, Madison, Ryan, Joshua, Mason, and Victoria.

Later in life, Fred shared many wonderful years and fond memories with his longtime partner, Nancy Herra, and her children and family.

Fred was often the life of the party and loved hosting gatherings at the MTC clubhouse, where many of the world’s problems were enthusiastically discussed—and more than a few were confidently “solved.” He formed many lifelong friendships, most notably sharing an unbreakable bond with his dear friend, Billy Hatfield. A true Melrose legend, Fred was friendly to everyone he met. He never judged, loved to joke, and had a natural instinct to help the underdog, often offering a helping hand—or even a spot on his payroll—when someone needed it most.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster Street, Melrose. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Gately Funeral Home. Interment will be private. Family & Friend’s respectfully invited to attend.