Henry Bekel of Somers, NY, passed away peacefully at home on October 18, 2025, at the age of 91, with his loving wife at his bedside.
Henry (Heinrich) Bekel was born on May 20, 1934 in Meppen, Germany, the son of hardworking farmers Johann and Adelheid (Breher) Bekel. He immigrated to the United States in 1962 in pursuit of the American dream and a family of his own. Shortly thereafter, Henry met the love of his life Gabriele while attending English classes in Cincinnati. They married in 1963 and soon after settled in Queens, NY, where they shared a life together.
A master cabinet maker by trade, Henry established his career at the United Nations, where he worked for over 20 years. His proudest professional achievement was marked by the opportunity to craft a custom inlaid box that was presented to Pope John Paul Ⅱ—his workmanship heralded for its quality and precision. Henry was an avid chess player and member of the UN Chess Club where he participated in international tournaments, even squaring off against a former world champion. He also enjoyed watching soccer, repairing clocks and watches, and faithfully maintaining the greenest, weed-free lawn in Westchester County.
Known to many simply as Opa, Henry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He is survived by Gabriele, his beloved wife of 63 years, his dear sister Elisabeth of Cincinnati, son Henry and his wife Carol of Elmont, daughter Carmen and her husband Mike of Carmel, and daughter Maria and her husband Matt of Carmel, his grandchildren Megan, Steven, Elisabeth, Morgan, Nicole, and Chelsea. Henry also had a special relationship with his beloved niece and goddaughter Anita and her husband John Esswein of Cincinnati. He was predeceased by his brother Gerd, and sisters Katrina and Anni, all of Germany.
Henry will be remembered for his strong will, skilled craftmanship, and frequent words of wisdom. His legacy lives on in the beautiful furniture he created that still adorns the living spaces of his family.
