Richard Champion Sr.

Richard “Champ” Lewis Champion Sr., passed away at his home Sunday, April 2, 2017. Richard was born December 17, 1939 in Seneca Falls, New York to Ezra C. and Esther M. (Houseworth) Champion. He was a graduate of Interlaken High School of which from there he went on to join the U.S. Navy.   He was stationed at Pensacola Florida for Communications Technician School and after graduating he then received his orders to Skaggs Island (Napa, Ca.) in December of 1962 were he met the love of his live Neva Ohlandt.  They would go on to marry October 1963 and raise three children.  After serving four years in the Navy he went on to work for Prudential Insurance and then moved on to the U.S. Postal Service for nearly 28 years of which he took an early retirement to take care of his ill wife.

Richard enjoyed his family, grandchildren and all the get togethers along with many hobbies, including his gardening and spending many hours in his wood working shop.   He enjoyed being involved with many local craft shows.  He also served on the Napa County Grand Jury and helped out during the U.S Postal food drives.  He was a member of NARF where he served as President of the local branch 627 for several years.  He volunteered his time during elections at the local facilities and at the headquarters of politicians.

 He leaves behind three children, Renee Zanardi (John) of Napa, Rhonda Reeder (Darrol) of Texas, & Richard L. Champion Jr. (Melanie) of Napa.  Grandchildren; Brandyn Healer (Oricela) of Napa, Ashlee Healer (Sean Talbot), of Vacaville, Kyle Reeder of Texas, Dillan Champion of Arkansas, Erika Champion of Arkansas.  Great Grandchildren; Meliah Healer & Deliah Healer of Napa.  Sister; Ruth Ike of New York and many other nieces and nephews.

He is pre-deceased by his wife Neva, his parents Ezra & Esther Champion, Brothers; Cecil Champion & Arthur Champion of New York.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Tulocay Cemetery, 411 Coombsville Rd. Napa, CA. with a viewing on Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 6pm to 8 pm.  The Funeral Service is on Friday, April 14, 2017 at 11:00 am.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.StJude.org) and Help Heal Veterans at (www.helphealvets.com).  

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