Mary (Levering) Champon, 97, passed away March 21, 2022 in Colts Neck. She was born March 29, 1924 in Wilmington, Delaware. It was there she met her husband Bernard at a USO dance and they were engaged two months later. Mary and Bernard celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary Sept. 20, 2021.
They had a wonderful and exciting life together as they raised their 15 children. Mary was known as “Grandmolly” to her 58 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. She took great pride in being an at-home mother and homemaker.
Mary had a passion for New York City where she enjoyed shows on Broadway, fine dining and great shopping. She loved to sing and had an amazing talent for remembering everyone’s birthday. Having a home full of friends and family always put a smile on her face. She had a strong Catholic faith with a devotion to St. Padre Pio.
Surviving are her children: Bernard (Debbie) Champon, Charles Champon, Colette (Lawrence) DeWald, Louis Champon, Richard Champon, Mary (Martin) Drobinko, Mark Champon, Carmel (John) Marion, John (Angie) Champon, Edouard Champon and Michael Champon; her 58 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard, and sons Albert, Gerard, Thomas and Philp Champon.
Visitation was held March 24 at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Middletown. A Funeral Liturgy was offered March 25 at St. Catherine’s Church, Middletown. Burial followed at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Tenafly.
In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution for the repose of the soul of Mary Champon to the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles. Donations can be made online at music.benedictinesofmary.org/donate or send a check by mail to Benedictines of Mary, 8005 NW 316th St., Gower, MO 64454.
The article originally appeared in the March 31 – April 6, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
