William D. Champagne

William D. Champagne, 85, of Saco, passed away Sunday afternoon on June 25, 2023, at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.

He was born in Biddeford on January 17, 1938, a son of William and Donia (Bouthillette) Champagne. He graduated from Old Orchard Beach High School where he lettered in football and baseball. Bill went on to the University of Maine at Orono and earned his Bachelor's in Education and than his Master's Degree from University of Southern Maine.

Mr. Champagne pursued his career in 1965, initially in Wells and then Old Orchard Beach. He eventually moved on to the Biddeford Elementary school system where he stayed until his retirement in 1990. Bill spent many years coaching the Biddeford Tiger High School Football Team, even winning a state championship during his reign.

Bill had many interesting hobbies. He enjoyed golfing and followed the New York Yankees and New York Giants. He was an avid reader with a fascination with World War II History and the life story of George Washington. He also spent many hours playing his favorite baseball card game Strat-O-Matic.

He was predeceased by two brothers Roger Champagne and Stephen Champagne.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, June (Petit) Champagne, two daughters Karen Kantolak and husband Johann and Kathy Heckethorn.

Four grandchildren: Andrew Heckethorn and wife Allison, Kate Schofield and husband Dan, Jessica Berube and husband Alex and Anna Kantolak and husband Abi Davids and five great grandsons

He is also survived by in laws, Wendell and Jacqueline Drown, Doris Petit and several nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00AM Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Saco. To view William's memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com

If friends desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association Maine, Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough or the Landing in Saco.