Obituary of Elinor Louise Champagne

Ellie Champagne, 85, of Vancouver, WA. passed away Sunday, December 13, 2009 after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her family and friends and faced her illness with courage, grace and her fabulous sense of humor. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Susan & Donald Morgan of Camas, WA; son & daughter -in-law Kelly & Sherri Champagne of Marysville, CA 10 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was born September 7, 1924 in Green Bay, WI, the daughter of Stanley and Louise Wilson. She had one older sister Dorothy deceased. After high school and a year of college she managed a millinery shop where she met the love of her life Clifton Champagne. They were married in 1945 and had 3 beautiful children. Cliff and Ellie enjoyed 38 wonderful years together. They moved to California in the early 1950's where they raised their family. She worked first in fashions and eventually her true passion, antiques & collectables, owning several shops over the years. She was preceded in death by her son Casey in 1972 and her beloved Cliff in 1983. Several men were lucky enough to capture her heart during her wonderful 85 years. She was eventually to survive 2 more wonderful husbands, Robert Grasse of Manitowoc, WI and Vernon Wichelhaus of Vancouver, WA, and her close friend David Hazlett of Portland, OR. She lived life to the fullest and loved decorating, fashion, dancing and being on the water. She couldn't resist a garage sale, a bargain, or a trip to a casino. Always smiling, flirting and always a nut. She will be missed but not forgotten. A celebration of life gathering will be held at Dolphin Yacht Club, 34 A Street, Port of Camas Washougal on December 18th, 2009 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Please feel free to wear your "Glitz & Bling" in honor of Ellie. Memorial donations can be given to the Doernbecher Children's Hospital Foundation @ M/S 20, P.O. Box 4100, Portland, OR 97208-9908. To send condolences or to sign the online guestbook visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.