HAMPDEN - It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved son, Christopher Philbrick. Chris died unexpectedly October 11, 2021, at his home. He was born October 21, 1977 in Presque Isle, Maine, where his story began 43 wonderful years ago. Chris is the loving son of Paul and Cindy (Bird) Philbrick.

Chris graduated from Hampden Academy, Class of 1996 and The University of Maine in 2001, majoring in Business. Chris started working at ELCO Electric in third grade (yes, that's the truth) and moved up to a Project Manager where he managed 3-4 million dollar electrical projects. Chris always had so much energy and could turn a bad play into a situation comedy instantly. ELCO Electric will never be the same without Chris's perpetual humor and ability to problem solve any crisis with professional grandeur.

While in high school, Chris played football, baseball and hockey. He loved to water ski and always put on a good show for everyone at East Grand Lake, where he spent his summers. Chris was an avid downhill skier and skied every mountain in Maine for years. There was no mountain too high for Chris to climb or ski down. Chris played the piano throughout his life and had fond memories of playing his trumpet in the band. Chris loved to go camping at Lake Webb with his family during his younger years and Omaha Beach throughout college.

Chris always offered up a helping hand, or a joke to brighten our lives. He was young at heart, always playful in everything he did. He couldn't resist climbing a tree or high jumping into the water. He loved camping, hiking and canoeing. And oh, how he loved camp fires. Old Smokey will never be the same without you.

Surviving in addition to his parents, are his brothers, Bernie Philbrick and Jonathan Philbrick, of Hampden; his sister, Stephanie and her husband, Jared; Chris's nephews, Alex and Nate already miss the excitement and fun that Chris brought with his flare for the unexpected. Chris also has a niece, Anna Philbrick. In addition is Chris's grandfather, Bernard Bird, of Fort Fairfield, whom he loved to fish with in the Allagash. His grandmother Edwena Gagnon of Fort Fairfield. Chris is survived by his Uncle Dan Boucher and his cousins Daniel Boucher and Brycen Brown. Chris is also survived by his little buddy, George. We all love George.

Chris was predeceased by his dear grandmother, Barbara Bird and his aunt Becky Bird Boucher. His grandfather, John Philbrick of Fort Fairfield. He had a fun, adventurous childhood, and spent many weeks of his summers with his Gram and Gramp Bird and Becky in Fort Fairfield and Cross Lake.

Chris had a passion for giving of himself; his hand always reaching out to console a troubled heart or to laugh out loud at a joke or even at himself. His laughter will be forever etched in our hearts. Years of memories will be in our hearts forever, of our angel who has a new mission in heaven. We will hold dear the memories of his life, his laughter and his never ending LOVE!

Chris, you were taken from us far too soon. We will always remember you for your quick wit, kindness and generosity. Your presence always lightened the room and we were so blessed to have you in our lives.

With tender and broken hearts we lift you up and hand you back to Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior, to love you and protect you in Christ's arms for eternity. Until we meet again, remember how much joy, laughter and fun you brought to all of our lives. Even though your days are over here on earth; your final journey has just begun. May you rest in peace, our precious child. You will be forever missed, forever loved.

Our message to Chris - "Missing you, BIG! Loving you, ALWAYS. Blessed beyond measure to have know your soul!"

Fare Thee Well our precious Chris - Fare Thee Well!