Patricia 'Patt' Chen, obituary
The family and friends of Patricia (Patt) Ann Chen will forever miss her. Patt died on July 21, 2026, at Maine Medical Center at the age of 64, following a sudden collapse at her home in Camden, Maine, on July 17, 2026. She was born in Waterville, Maine, on January 26, 1962.
A natural artist all her life, Patt attended Rhode Island School of Design in her early years, and later collaborated with her brother-in-law, Dirk McDonnell, in the redesign of her parents’ home in Camden. Her creative endeavors were numerous—painting, pottery, and photography, and loving an art exhibit of any medium. Patt was always willing to try new pursuits whether it be hunter jumping in her youth, scuba diving, kayaking, or sailing. She was an avid hiker and could put many a hiking companion to the test with her agility and athleticism.
Patt was a true explorer, with a boundless curiosity about people and places. She was gracious and charitable in her friendships and known for having a kind word for all. Her kindness and loyalty drew a large and diverse circle of friends that spanned from her elementary school days to the present. There was nothing more joyous than hearing Patt laugh at a joke told by a friend or loved one. She laughed quietly, and you had to see her eyes watering profusely and her shaking shoulders to know you had struck her funny bone.
Patt’s adventurous spirit had her always ready for a trip overseas, including the frequent trips with her husband to the United Kingdom to spend happy times with family and to hike the Scottish “Munros." At home, Patt was a terrific cook and enjoyed bringing loved ones together. Her two cats, Miglet and Minnie, were never far from her side. Patt loved all animals and was a past volunteer with PAWS Animal Adoption Center. As an extension of her love of the Maine outdoors, Patt had volunteered with Coastal Mountains Land Trust. She also was a committed member of the Camden Town Planning Board.
While Patt suffered from Frontotemporal Dementia during the past few years, her family and close friends are truly grateful for a profound gift: her noted clarity and connection with her loved ones during the final weeks of her life.
Patt is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Campbell; his wonderful children, Graham (Leanne) Campbell, Fiona (Sean) Stringer, and Lorna (Paul) Taylor; and six cherished grandchildren, Esther, Maya, Clara, Alfie, Ava, and Astrid. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Chen; her cousin, Bob Maranowski; the Karl family of second cousins, including Jim and his wife, Barb; and many Chinese relatives abroad.
Her family extends their deepest gratitude to the Camden Fire and Rescue Department, North East Mobile Health Services, MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital, and Maine Medical Center for the exceptional and compassionate care they provided to Patt in her final days. Many thanks to Long Funeral Home for their kind services and support.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.
