I will always be grateful for Dr. Champagne taking time from his days to come teach our class grammar in 4th grade. We truly appreciated him. 

Deepest Sympathy,
Cliff

I met Roland only a few times, but remember what a gentleman and scholar he was. I'm stunned by this news and so very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and to everyone who loved him. My deepest condolences to you and your son. -- Sammye

I had the privilege of signing Mr Champagne in every time he came to Cambridge Elementary. (Which was often). He and his wife have faithfully served our students.  He was an advocate for those he was helping and did not tolerate any children being treated unkindly. He will be sorely missed.  He served with all his heart, I’m grateful I knew him.

Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Champagne’s family.  Two of my four children benefitted from his thoughtful service in the Alamo Heights schools.  The days he visited their classrooms were bright spots in their weeks.  What an inspiration of continued engagement to our children and to supporting education.  He will be so missed.

We are struggling to imagine a world without Roland Champagne. 

Roland was a true Renaissance man. He loved baseball as much as he loved French literature. An accomplished and highly regarded scholar and professor, he used his teaching talents to help elementary school children learn that they could write—a gift that will last the rest of their lives. 

He deeply loved his wife, Nina and their son Noah. He was a good friend, and a fabulous storyteller.  He was kind, gentle, and generous of spirit.  

We miss him.  

Diane & Bill Graves


My oldest brother.  Always available to give me advice. The responsible one. He was one of seven.  I will miss him dearly.  Gone too soon.

Protector.  He protected all of us by serving as a Captain in the U.S. Marines in the Vietnam war.  Thank you for your service.

Caring.  He cared about everyone and worked in his retirement with children who had no male figure in their lives.  He loved to see children benefit from the knowledge he could give them in simple format.

Loving.  He loved his family.  Nina and Noah.  He loved talking about projects that Nina was currently working on.  She was always so busy in her career.  He was particularly proud of Noah’s success and how he grew into a responsible professional adult.  His marriage to Sarah was an event that he was particularly proud of.

We will miss you.  Love💕


Nina,
I am so sorry to learn of your husband’s passing. I only met Roland once when I first arrived at Trinity almost three years ago and it was a very pleasant encounter. Please know that I will be keeping you in my thoughts for peace and comfort. And if there is anything I can do personally, do not hesitate to reach out to me. 

Roland and his family are the sweetest, kindness and thoughtful community members and friends that a person could even wish to have as part of their family. When we first moved to Alamo Heights in 2006, Roland, as our neighbor behind us, brought over the book "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse" - my youngest daughter's name is LillyKate.  I soon learned that Roland volunteered in each of the elementary and early childhood schools to promote the love of writing and reading. As a teacher at Howard ECC, I was amazed at how may books in the library were donated in honor of his son, Noah Eckstien.  Although Noah is now a successful graduate, I know his is proud of the investment his parents, Nina and Roland made to his future. It was not just because of their love and commitment to his daily life, but for his future as well. Roland and Nina can often be seen walking while reading and taking care to reduce carbon emmissions by driving smaller cars, if driving at all. This family is one to be treasured for eternity for the eternal impression they will leave on our hearts and community. With gratitude for your commitment and devotion, Tobey, Bob, Audrey and LillyKate Cleek

OBITUARY

Roland Armand Champagne

May 19, 1946 – March 8, 2020

Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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