Richard Champagne was born December 9, 1952 in Red Lake Falls, MN, the son of Elmer and Theresa (Lessard) Champagne. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Josephs, Brooks, MN. He attended elementary school in Brooks and attended high school in Red Lake Falls.

In 1975, Richard was united in marriage to Judy Burthwick at Brooks. He worked at Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls until 1979 and then from 1979 " 1995 he drove mail truck for Paradis, Inc, until his health forced him to retire.

Richard enjoyed watching sports and yard work. Most of all he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Survived by fianc, Kim Bruley, Thief River Falls, MN; children, Bryan (Patty) Champagne, Thief River Falls, MN, Patti (Kent) Bergerson and Denise Gunderson all Oklee, MN; 5 grandchildren, Jordin and Jarrin Gunderson, Jeremy Kruchowski, Bryce and Matthew Bergerson; 5 step grandchildren, Jason, KateLynne, Nathaniel, Darian and Brian Snyder; mother, Theresa Champagne, Brooks, MN; brothers and sisters, Kathleen Halsa, Thief River Falls, MN, Ronald (Marlene Hince) Champagne, Thermopolis, WY, Jeff (Deb) Champagne, Brooks, MN, Kevin Champagne, Oregon, Janel (Greg Lord) Champagne, Brooks, MN and Scott Champagne, Brooks, Mn; sister-in-law, Mary Champagne, Lakeville, MN and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by father, Elmer, brother, Kenny, grandparents, Charles and Rose Lessard and Amedie and Delima Champagne.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralservice.com