Christopher Julian Pathe

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and devoted husband, Chris Pathé, aged 66. Chris departed this world peacefully in his home on November 6th 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and enduring memories.

Born on May 31st 1957, Chris was the son of Julian Folsom Pathé and Katherine Dakos and brother to David and Peter. He grew up in Ashland, Massachusetts and later went on to build a life dedicated to his family, career, and community. A man of unwavering integrity, Chris’s character was defined by his compassion, generosity, and a witty sense of humor that could light up any room.

Chris was a devoted husband to his wife, Gaby, and a loving father to his two sons, Mark and Eric. Family was the cornerstone of his life, and his devotion to their well-being was evident in every aspect of his life. He took immense pride in witnessing his children's achievements and celebrating their joys.

A skilled systems engineer, Chris dedicated his career to hard work and excellence. His colleagues remember him not only for his professionalism but also for the camaraderie and support he extended to everyone around him. Some notable achievements during his career include:

-Developing and architecting the fingerprinting system for the Department of Homeland Security for the southern US border

-Helped invent and deploy the CLEAR program, providing background screening and biometric data that clears airline passengers to move more quickly through the security process

-He linked police databases to FBI databases that led to the capture of the D.C. sniper

Chris’s impact reached far beyond the workplace, as he actively participated in community events, always eager to lend a helping hand. Once Chris began to lighten his professional workload, he supplemented his time volunteering at Manna food bank, helping prepare care packages for families in need.

In his leisure time, Chris enjoyed boating, golfing, and spending time with his friends and family. Whether it was hanging out outdoors, attending local events in Annapolis and Bethesda, or simply sharing a meal with family and friends, he cherished life's simple pleasures. His laughter echoed through countless family gatherings, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to share those moments with him.

Chris’s departure leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched. He is survived by his wife, children, brothers, nieces and nephews, and a community that will forever be grateful for the warmth he brought into their lives.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time. A memorial service will be held on Thursday November 16th, 2023 at Joseph Gawler’s Sons Funeral Home located at 5130 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made to Manna Food Center:

https://www.mannafood.org/donate-to-manna/

May Chris rest in eternal peace, his memory a source of comfort and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.