WESTFIELD – Harold I. Champiney passed away Saturday, June 22, 2013, just one day short of his 79th birthday, in a local nursing home. Born in Westfield to the late Louis E and Christina B (LaFreniere) Champiney.
Harold was educated in the Southwick schools. He owned and operated Champiney Lawn Mower Co. in Westfield since 1960, a family business continued today by his son. Harold also drove a school bus here in Westfield for over 50 years, retiring in 2007. He was a longtime member of the Air National Guard who had assisted the people of Westfield during the flood of 1956. Harold was a longtime member of the Chamber of Commerce. He loved all kinds of sports, coaching in the Westfield Babe Ruth and Little League for many years and later participating in the Men’s Softball League as well. Harold was an assistant coach for the Westfield High School Hockey Team and was an avid bowler participating in the Chamber of Commerce Men’s League.
He leaves his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty A (Merrill) Champiney; three children, Harold I. Champiney and his wife Jeannette of East Otis, Doreen Vietenheimer and her husband Mark of Granby, MA, and William I Champiney and his wife Lynda of Westfield; 7 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Harold also leaves two brothers, David Champiney of Russell and Donald Champiney of Westfield; one sister, Gale LePage of Westfield along with many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours for Harold will be held Thursday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Robert E Cusack Funeral Home, 94 Main Street (Route 20), Westfield. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 59 Bobala Road, Holyoke, MA 01040.
