Michael Chen

Michael W. Chen, PhD,, age 64, of St. Charles, IL died July 29, 2016. Born November 18, 1951. Son of Wen Chao and Lilia Chen. Married 35 years to Monica R. Clarke Chen of Allentown, PA. Received advanced degrees in Chemistry from Michigan State University and the University of Wisconsin of Madison. Employed by Union Carbide Corporation in the chemicals and plastics industry for over 20 years. During this time Michael was active in catalyst, process and product technology research and development. Later in his career he transitioned into commercial management, focused on the development of international joint ventures, global process re-engineering, and organizational/executive leadership development. Michael completed his working career with Roquette America in commercial and technical food sales and in the business development of ecologically friendly "green" products in the coatings and adhesives industry. Michael was an avid aviation supporter and was involved in the restoration of a B-17E "Flying Fortress" as part of the Kellner Restoration group in Marengo, IL. He is preceded in death by his father, Wen Chao Chen. He is survived by his mother, Lilia Chen of Kalamazoo, MI; wife, Monica of St. Charles, IL; daughters Alice and Megan of Oakland, CA and Falls Church, VA; and brother, sister-in-law, and nephew, Philip, Janet, and Dylan Chen of Ann Arbor, MI. Per his request, a memorial service will be held for Michael in spring 2017 in Kalamazoo, MI. Those interested in sending flowers or making donations are requested to make a contribution to the Michigan Festival of Sacred Music, P.O. Box 50566, Kalamazoo, MI 49005. Arrangements handled by Malone Funeral Home, 630-232-8233.