Obituary: Donald E. Champion – What’s New Newp

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After a year of long courageous battle with cancer, Donald E. Champion of Middletown, RI died peacefully in Manchester, NH on October 8, 2021 surrounded by his loving daughters. Born in Newport, he was the son of the late Margaret (Homer) and William J. Champion Jr.

Don served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957 and then moved to Newport Public Works. In 1965, he began his career with the U.S. Postal Service and served until his retirement in 1995. As someone who wanted to stay busy, Don began working part time at Memorial Funeral Home and did so until 2015. Don was known for his community and dedicated to serving others. He volunteered for nearly 30 years in the kitchen of St. Josephs and donated blood regularly. He enjoyed catering and became an active member of the Knights of Columbus. Don enjoys playing cards with the Knights every Friday night and is an avid golfer. Her passion is spending time with her family, especially if she gets in a circle or two. In his final years, Don was a regular patron at Garys Handy Lunch and enjoyed interacting with the staff. Don will be remembered as a loving, generous and faithful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Donald is survived by his wife Barbara (Barrows) Champion of Middletown, RI; Daughters: Patricia (Jay) Morris of Manchester, NH and Donna (Tim) Switzer of Fairfax Station, VA, Children: Shannon Champion, John (Nicole) Morris, Jr., Andrew Morris, Tom Switzer, Ryan Switzer; Great grandchildren: Yazmine Champion, Kyle Rainville. Siblings: Patricia Moniz, Sheila Maxwell, Nick Champion; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Don was preceded by his daughter Kathy Champion and siblings William J. Champion, III and Paul A. Champion.

The visitation will be held Monday, October 11, 2021 from 4: 00-7: 00 pm at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, RI. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Savior, 509 Broadway, Newport, RI. In exchange for flowers, please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice.

More information at www.memorialfuneralhome.com

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