Charles Champine

Waterville -Charles Edward Champine, 92, passed away on March 30 at Lakewood Long Term Care in Waterville. He was born on April 28, 1922 to Wallace Champine and Gertrude Cote Champine. He was their only child.

Charles graduated from Waterville High School in 1940 then enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on active duty during World War II. He was an Electronic Technician’s Mate from 1943-1946.

Upon his return he began working as an usher at the State Theater in Waterville, where he eventually became the District Manager of nine theaters in the state of Maine. While working in the theater business, Charles earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business, graduating Magna Cum Laude, from Thomas College. Shortly thereafter in 1979, he retired from the motion picture theater business and taught at Thomas College for two years. He also taught at Skowhegan High School until his retirement in 1984. After retirement he taught part time at Thomas College, Kennebec Valley Technical School and Adult Education in Waterville.

In 1952, he was married to the love of his life, Dolores Goulette Champine, who predeceased him five short months ago. They were best friends and were always together. They enjoyed many hobbies together: traveling, Round and Square Dancing, Ballroom Dancing and playing cards with friends. They had a truly magical relationship for over 62 years.

Charles was also a member of many civil and fraternal organizations, including past President of the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. He volunteered at Notre Dame Food Kitchen and has been an active member serving on many committees at the New Dimensions Federal Credit Union. He was also Secretary of the Board of Directors and Chairperson of the Supervisory Committee. He is also a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus of the Waterville Council #148 and the Fourth Degree Assembly, where he served as Grand Knight, Faithful Navigator and as District Deputy.

Charles was also an accomplished oil painter with over 20 works of art, which are all displayed in his daughter’s home. He had many award winning paintings that were often in and around the halls of their condominium.

Above all, Charles’ greatest accomplishment was his family. His dedication, devotion and never-ending love was admired by all. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grampy. Charles touched the lives of all who knew him. He was a kind, considerate, and generous man always putting others ahead of himself.

He is survived by his only child and loving daughter, Shelly Simpson and her husband Reginald, of Oakland. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan Simpson of South Portland, and his granddaughter, Nicole Lemieux and her husband, Brenton of Cumberland, two great grandchildren, Reese and Charlie Lemieux of Cumberland. He admired and greatly loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren and was honored to have his great grandson named after him.

There will be no visiting hours by request of the family. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m. at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Waterville, ME.

Charles’ daughter and family are eternally grateful for the extraordinary care and compassion from the Lakewood Long Term Care staff. They truly treated him like family with constant love. He considered them his family as well. A special thank you to Charles’ roommate, Peter Muzerolle who made these past five months a true gift. He will always have a special place in the hearts of Charles ‘ family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lakewood Long Term Care Unit, 220 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, Me 04901.

Services are under the care and direction of Veilleux Funeral Home 8 Elm St. Waterville, ME