Dave M. Patchen

David Michael Patchen, 73, died at his residence on Sunday, August 11, 2024 after a lengthy illness. He was born to Gerard (Jerry) Patchen and Violet (Martha) Cupoli Patchen in Columbus, Ohio and enjoyed his Italian relatives for many treasured years.

Dave is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Lynn Hedges Patchen of 42 years, nieces, nephews, a sister, brother and many good friends who have become like family. 

Lynn and Dave also loved their devoted cats through the years, especially the present ones, Lizzie and Rudy, who are still looking for “Daddy Dave.”

Officer Dave Patchen retired from the Columbus Division of Police where he spent 29 years, the majority of which was spent in the traffic control motorcycle unit with a great group of colleagues. Devoted to his profession, he earned the nicknames “Bomb Boy,” “Jokester,” “Corporal,” and “Patchman.” Dave’s father was also a Columbus Police officer, and working along with Dave brought great joy to their lives. As a Fifty-Year Member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Capital City Lodge #9, Dave was awarded a Life Member Status.

Dave was a loving, protective, devoted and caring husband to Lynn, and with God at the center of their marriage; they enjoyed attending Fairfield Christian Church for over 22 years.

Together they traveled extensively, and enjoyed music, nature, hiking, picnics, sunsets, sunrises, rainbows, wonders of the sky and spending time with good friends. Dave was very knowledgeable about electronics, aviation, tanks and military history.

He and Lynn were members of Fairfield County Heritage Association, leading groups on the Candlelight Tour, the many cemetery walks, and local history walks downtown. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held September 14, 2024, 11:00 AM, at Fairfield Christian Church, 1965 North Columbus St., Lancaster, Ohio with a light meal to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave’s name to Fairfield Christian Church, Columbus Division of Police Honor Guard, Fairfield County Heritage Association or to the Fairfield County Area Humane Society.