Stephan "Steve" Melin

Stephan Spencer Melin was born on December 25, 1950, in Los Angeles, California, and passed away on January 28, 2026 at the age of 75 in New Bern, North Carolina.

Steve cherished his childhood in Southern California and carried many fond memories from those early years. Over the course of his life, his journey took him all over the country, but his California roots always stayed close to his heart.

A proud Navy Vietnam veteran, Steve’s life was shaped by service, hard work, and meaningful connection to the people around him. He was also a dedicated Freemason and Shriner, commitments that reflected his belief in brotherhood, service, and giving back to others. When asked about his education, he liked to say he earned his degree from the “School of Hard Knocks,” a line that perfectly captured his grit, humor, and belief in learning through lived experience.

Steve spent his career repairing medical equipment, specializing in cancer-fighting technology — work he took seriously and found deeply meaningful. He believed in the purpose behind what he did and valued knowing his work helped people during some of their most difficult moments.

Stubborn, sharp, and endlessly hardworking, Steve was known for answering questions with a mischievous grin that often said more than words ever could. He loved telling stories, sharing wisdom, and passing along lessons drawn from a life fully lived. He also had a deep appreciation for music and film, with tastes as wide-ranging as his curiosity.

Steve’s greatest pride was his family. He was devoted to his wife, Carol Melin, and deeply loved each member of his family. He is survived by his wife Carol; his children Rachel (Branden), Sarah (Paulthomas), David, and Deonia; his brothers Roy and Bobby Melin; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him constant joy. Steve shared an especially close and cherished bond with his granddaughter, Alyssa — a connection deeply known and felt by all who loved him.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Alfred Melin and Georgia Westcot Macdonald.

Steve's visitation will take place at 11:00 A.M with a memorial service to follow at 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Highland Park Christian Church, 905 Carolina Ave, Trent Woods, NC 28562.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bike Box Project in New Bern, NC.

Rachel and Sarah would like to take a moment to thank their mother, Carol, who was not only a devoted wife, but also an extraordinary caregiver to their father throughout his long journey with Parkinson’s disease.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Stephan Spencer Melin.