Obituary: John S. Patchell
John S. Patchell
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – John S Patchell, 81, passed away peacefully on Oct. 3, 2026, at his home in St. Augustine, Fla. after losing his battle to cancer.
John was born in Portland, Maine, to parents Joseph and Helen Patchell. He graduated from South Portland High School in 1963 and attended SMVTI majoring in Electronics. He then became a computer technician for Burroughs, working at Casco Bank in Portland for many years and continued his career working for Unisys Corporation. John was a jack of all trades, building and repairing with family and friends.
John moved to Florida with his wife, Diane, of 37 years, where they lived for more than 20 years. He ran a small repair service for local musicians repairing amplifiers. John loved coming back to Maine and spending time on Sebago Lake and visiting family and friends.
John was predeceased by his father, Joseph Patchell, his mother, Helen Patchell; and his sister Joan Coyne.
John is survived by his brother, Donald Patchell of South Portland, Maine, his sister Virginia (Patchell) Frederick of Scarborough, Maine; his wife Diane Patchell of St. Augustine, Fla.; his four daughters Wendy Miles of Freeport, Maine, Kimberly Hibbard of Pownal, Maine, Susan Harlow of Yarmouth, Maine, Deborah Cates of Auburn, Maine, and his stepson Jerry Bridgham of St. Augustine, Fla. His family included nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 10 nieces and nephews.
Due to John’s request, there will be no formal services. He will be dearly missed by all.
In lieu of flowers,
donations can be sent to:
VITAS Healthcare
Copy the Story Link
