SACO — Stephen M. Bernier, 56, of Saco, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Saco on April 3, 2014.

Stephen was born on June 8, 1957 in Westbrook, one of five children of Roland and Ida (Trepanier) Bernier.

He was a graduate of Gray-New Gloucester High School. Later, he received his associate’s degree in culinary arts from SMVTI.

Stephen was an accomplished carpenter and cook, working throughout Maine, and most recently, he was employed at Paradigm Windows Solutions in Portland.

He enjoyed being outdoors and by the water, going to Sebago Lake, sitting around a camp fire with his family, going camping, woodworking, and being with family and friends.

Stephen loved his children and grandchildren, he was so proud of them he would often talk about them even to strangers he had just met. He liked to be helpful, he had a big heart and was a very caring person, and he would help most anyone who needed him.

Stephen is survived by: his two sons, Tyler Bernier and his wife Patricia and their children Logan and Brady of Alfred, and Ryan Bernier and his wife Lisa and their daughter Mia of New Gloucester.

He is also survived by: his siblings, Jerry Bernier and his wife Cheryl of Biddeford, Thomas Bernier of Saco, James Bernier and his wife Laurie of Raymond and Francesca Bouthot of Lewiston; several nieces and nephews; and many good friends, including his friend and former wife, Sharon Bernier of Biddeford.

A private funeral service was held for his family. Arrangements are by Cote Funeral Home in Saco. To send a condolence or to sign the online guestbook, visit www.cotefuneralhome.com.

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