Col (R) Gene Edward Champe

Gene E. Champe left us peacefully during the early morning hours of January 25, 2023. The only child of the Hazel and Chalmer Champe, Gene was born in Akron Ohio and attended Glover Elementary, Goodrich Middle School, and graduated from Garfield High School in 1948. Early in his childhood Gene was introduced to music by his dad, sparking a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Patricia (Karg) Champe. Gene leaves behind his loving family, daughters Ramona (Champe) Sears (Robert), Jeanine Champe, and son, Richard Champe. He also leaves 3 granddaughters, Rebecca (Sears) McCashin (Pat), Renee (Sears) Riegler (Pat) and Robyn (Sears) Larsen (Jimmy), as well as 3 great-grandchildren, Reese Riegler, Rory Riegler, and Robert McCashin.

After High School, Gene embarked on a career that included both civilian positions concurrent with service in the national guard and reserve components as well as Active Army assignments and later as a Government Civilian employee. His long record of uniformed service to his nation spanned over 40 years, including two tours in Viet Nam as a helicopter pilot, and assignments to Europe and the Pentagon, retiring from the Army as a Colonel in 1990. Upon retirement from government service, Gene remained active in many organizations to include the Mason's, Shriner's, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Vietnam Veterans organizations (Rattlers/Firebirds), and Association of the United States America (AUSA).

Gene was civic minded and always wanted to contribute to the greater good. He was a member of many boards and councils. He was a good father and often put the needs and wants of his children ahead of his own. He coached little league baseball and supported the equestrian interests of his daughters. He was there for all their games and shows. He enjoyed most things outdoorsy and was a happy neighbor who tried to be a friend and mentor to all. He and Pat loved to travel. They especially enjoyed cruising with friends and family and made many lasting acquaintances while traveling the world.

Services will be held Friday, February 3, 2023 at Hummel Funeral Home, 3475 Copley Road, Copley, Ohio, 44321 with calling hours at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00. Internment will take place at 12:30 at Western Reserve National Veterans Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. There will be a celebration of life from 2:00-5:00 at The Tangier, located at our Lady of the Cedars, 507 S Cleveland Massillon Rd, Fairlawn, Ohio 44333 P: (330) 376-7171.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made in his name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .