Chen Chiang

Chen Chiang, age 96, passed away peacefully at home on August 25, 2024. Born on February 23, 1928, Chen was affectionately known as “Papa” by many friends and customers. He was fluent in Mandarin, Taiwanese, Japanese, and some English.

In Taiwan, Chen served as a police officer for the first half of his career. In 1974, he moved to the United States, where he worked at Burger King and White Horse (a Chinese restaurant). Ten years later, in January 1984, he opened China Garden in Frederick, MD.

Chen attended culinary arts school in Taiwan, where he learned to cook many beloved dishes. His absolute passion was feeding people, and for over 30 years, he dedicated himself to his restaurant, working seven days a week.

Chen is survived by his daughter, Mei Lin Chiang; his three sons, Jamie Chiang, Allen Chiang and his wife Michelle, and Bruce Chiang and his wife Shuangling; his three grandchildren, Kevin Wu and his wife Melanie Wu, Dennis Wu and his wife Rachel Barber-Wu, and Michael Chiang; his three great-grandchildren, Leia Wu, Johnny Wu, and Lillian Barber-Wu; his sister, Mary Mohr; and his nephew, Tony Mohr.

In lieu of flowers, please support a local restaurant in his memory.