Barbara (Nelson) Champaigne, 98, passed away on Jan. 25, 2026. She was born Nov. 11, 1927, to Arthur D. and Dagmar (Asbjørnsen) Nelson in Superior, WI. She graduated from Superior East High, attended St. Teresa college, Winona, MN, and graduated with a B.S. from U-W Superior.

Barbara and John F. Champaigne married on August 19, 1949. They lived in Minot, ND, Ames, IA, Niagara Falls, NY, and in Neenah, WI. They celebrated 51 years of marriage before John died in 2001.

Barbara enjoyed sewing, knitting and rosemaling (Norwegian painting). She was a long time member (over 50 years) of Neenah’s First Presbyterian Church, Agape Circle, and participated in their knitting group knitting many hats/mittens for area children. She was a 'golden' and 'life member' of Sons of Norway where she was a stamp cutter for years (fundraiser for the children of Norway). She was a caregiver for her mother and husband for many years. She immensely enjoyed spending time with her family and sharing all facets of her Norwegian heritage.

Barbara is survived by a daughter: Arlee (Dan Czarnecki), Brookfield, WI, a son: Jack (Diane), Stanwood, WA, four grandchildren: Erika (Kevin) Klockner, Brookfield, WI, David (Jordan Anderson) Czarnecki, Waukesha, WI, Kristi Dushek, MD and Amy (Chris) Krause, WA, and eight great grandchildren: Xander and Logan Krause, Everett, Elyse, and Emmett Klockner and Eadalie, Enoch, and Hollyn Czarnecki. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and great granddaughter Kaylin Dushek.

The family wishes to thank Discovery Commons (formerly Heartis Senior Living) and Badger Hospice caregivers and staff for their compassionate and exceptional care during Barbara’s 4.5+ year journey with dementia.

Respecting her wishes, no visitation or funeral will be held. The body has been cremated, and will be interred in the family plot at Riverside Cemetery, Superior, WI.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to your favorite charity.