Norman C. Champagne's Obituary
Norman C. Champagne, Sr., 90, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, Veterans Day, November 11, 2022.
He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marilynn (Sajdak) Champagne; nine children: Norman (Sherry) Champagne Jr., Lynn Champagne, Michael, Denise Champagne, Thomas, Kevin, Scott (Rachael), Eric and Bryan (Avani) Champagne; 13 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Norm was born on February 25, 1932, in Buffalo, the son of Alfred Sr. and Agnes (McNab) Champagne who predeceased him, along with four siblings: Alfred (Marjorie) Jr., Betty Ann Lehsten-Mercer, Jack (Wanda) and Audrey (Richard) Elsaesser. Norm is also predeceased by his first wife, Mary Ann (Tracy) Champagne, the mother of his first six children.
He proudly served his country during the Korean War as a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps. Upon his return to Buffalo, he worked several years at the former American Standard plant, later earning a business certificate at Erie County Community College and pursuing a career with the former Hughes Industrial Products Inc. where he served in several executive positions before retiring in 2001. He was a major part of the company’s expansion and served as president of its Central New York branch, moving his family to North Syracuse in 1971.
Norm was passionate about military history and sharing his experiences and knowledge with others. He was active in veterans’ organizations, including the Marine Corps League, VFW Post 7290 in North Syracuse, and the Korean War Veterans Association, serving for two years as commander of the Central New York Chapter 105, and in other officer posts.
Beginning in 2010, Norm worked closely with Syracuse University Professor, now President of the Korean War Legacy Foundation, Dr. Jongwoo Han, in the development of the Korean War Legacy Project. Its mission is to assist teachers, students and the general public in understanding the outcomes of the Korean War, and its rich legacy in promoting democracy and freedom in the world today. Norm cared deeply about the men and women who battled in Korea and wanted to ensure that future generations understood what their sacrifice was for. He also contributed his personal experience of the Korean War to the Legacy Project, including his unique perspectives about the harsh realities of battle, as well as his lasting impressions of Korea. He returned to South Korea with Dr. Han in 2010, and again in 2016, where he was graciously received and personally thanked for his service by residents. The experience of witnessing the outcome of his country’s successful war efforts firsthand was deeply gratifying, and a major source of pride for him.
Norm enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be remembered fondly for his silly sense of humor and joking nature. He could find humor in nearly anything and had an extraordinary ability to cheer up those who were feeling down. He was an excellent listener, enjoyed good conversation, and could spend hours talking to a stranger as if they had known one another for years.
Some of his fondest memories were attending Syracuse University football home games at the Carrier Dome and annual family summer vacations in Lake George. He faithfully rooted for the Syracuse Orange and the Buffalo Bills year after year. Lastly, Norm loved warm apple pie with ice cream, and a mention of it would send him rushing to the dining table, face beaming with joy.
Family and friends may call on Friday, November 18, 2022 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY. A Funeral Service in celebration of Norman’s life will be held at 9:00 am on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the funeral home, followed by burial with Military Honors at Assumption Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Program, or Golisano Children's Hospital.
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