Donald H. Champion

Donald H. Champion, age 81, of Lancaster, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2009, at  Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital, Prairie du Chien. He was born on March 27, 1928, the son of Orlo and Hazel (Budworth) Champion on the family farm in Little Grant Township. He graduated from Bloomington High School in 1945.

On January 27, 1953, Donald was united in marriage to Helene C. Ehlen. He farmed his entire life having milked cows until he was 75 years old. Donald liked to watch the Price is Right and the Brewers and Cubs. He looked forward to his Saturday visits with granddaughter, Rebekah.

Donald is survived by his wife of 56 years, Helene; two daughters: Pat (Jerry) Knight, Bloomington and Diane (Don) Parkins, Lancaster; a son, Dale (Teresa) Champion, Prairie du Chien; his grandchildren: Michael and Jeffery Knight, Sarah, Andrea and Steven Parkins, Rebekah Champion; two step-grandchildren: Luke and Rachel Mezera;  nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law, Mercille Roesch, Potosi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and brothers-in-law: Dorothy (George) Clifton and Audrey and (James) Roach.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2009 at Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington with Reverend Mary Ann Floerke officiating. Burial was held in Dodge Cemetery, Beetown Township. Family and friends called from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2009, and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services Wednesday all at the funeral home.