I-Ming "Felix" Chen

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of I-Ming Chen, known to many as Felix Chen, on February 24th, 2024, at the age of sixty-six, after a valiant three-and-a-half-year battle with lung cancer.

I-Ming had been a resident of North Potomac, Maryland, since 1987. He leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Chien-Fien Chen (Hedy Chen); his mother Li-Chieh Chen; his brother, I-Lun Chen; his daughter, Becky Chen Ziegel; his son-in-law, Kurt Ziegel; and his grandsons, Henry Kai Ziegel and Dylan James Ziegel.

I-Ming was born on November 21st, 1957, in Taipei, Taiwan. He attended Fu-Ren University and majored in Business Administration. After university, he served for two years in the Taiwanese military and worked in Taipei for three years. Shortly after he met his beloved wife Chien-Fien, of 39 years, through a mutual friend. In 1984, I-Ming immigrated to the United States to attend graduate school at Texas A&M University, majoring in computer science. During his time there I-Ming was known for being among the smartest in his class and was known to be generous with his time in helping others with their studies. Many of the friendships he developed during this time lasted for the rest of his life.

Following his graduation, I-Ming and Chien-Fien moved to Washington D.C in 1987, where I-Ming embarked on his career at the Investment Company Institute. The couple welcomed their daughter, Becky, on August 4th, 1987. In 2007, I-Ming beganworking with the United States Federal Reserve Bank, a role he held until his retirement in 2022.

I-Ming's legacy is marked by his patient and generous spirit. He was a man who gave freely of his time and resources, always without seeking recognition. His kindness and selflessness touched the lives of many and will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

A small, private inurnment took place at Parklawn Memorial Park Cemetery on March 3rd, 2024. During this difficult time, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and well wishes. Those wishing to honor I-Ming's memory may make a memorial contribution to either of these charities that were important to I-Ming; Feeding America, a charity he contributed to and cared for deeply, or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation.

I-Ming's life was a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and love. He will be profoundly missed.