Charles Champlin Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Charles R. Champlin died peacefully at age 91 on March 12, 2022 in Tulsa, OK. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Mary Jo Slama Champlin. He later married the former Miss Betty Jo Osburn, she preceded him in death on October 4, 2018. Among his survivors are the following sons and their respective spouses: Frank Champlin of Tulsa, OK; Fred and Brenda Champlin of Tahlequah, OK; Greg and Janice Champlin of Eureka Springs, AR; Joe and Valerie Champlin of Owasso, OK; and Don and Kathy Champlin of Sugar Land, TX. He is also survived by grandchildren Bryan Champlin, Carissa Franken-Champlin, Ben Champlin, Chris Champlin, Laura Champlin, Michael Champlin, Amber Champlin Massotto, Samantha Perry, Aubry Champlin, and 10 great-grandchildren. Charles was born to Edna Bird and J Ross Champlin on December 24,1930 in St. Joseph, MO and spent his early years in rural Missouri south of Kansas City. The family eventually moved to the town of Butler, MO where he obtained most of his education and graduated from Butler High School in 1948. He attended Central Missouri State College in Warrensburg, MO before enlisting with several of his buddies in the United States Air Force where he rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant. He served for two terms of enlistment at Eglin AFB, Valparaiso, FL; Tinker AFB, Midwest City, OK; and Ladd Air Field, Fairbanks, AK. He met and married Mary Jo Slama, R.N. of Oklahoma City while stationed at Tinker. After his military service, he worked as an insurance investigator with Retail Credit Company (which later became Equifax) continuously until his retirement. A devoted family man, Charles was always active in his local Baptist church and enjoyed Scouting activities and numerous other events with his boys, running, raising dogs (often of unknown pedigree), and visiting with family both near and far. A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 AM, Friday, March 18, 2022 at Hayhurst Funeral Home Chapel in Broken Arrow, OK. Charles’ family is extremely grateful to the many health care professionals who provided exemplary and loving attention during these challenging times. In lieu of flowers, his family encourages memorial donations be made to Clarehouse, 7617 South Mingo, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133, or the charitable cause of your choice.

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Charles Champlin

December 29, 1930 - March 12, 2022