Gilbert P. Champagne, 73, of Rochester, died on March 20 at home after a long illness.

He was the husband of Jane M. (Doran) Champagne.

Born and raised in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Antonio and Henrietta (Lemaire) Champagne. He lived in Rochester since 1973.

He was a communicant of St. John Neumann Church, East Freetown.

Mr. Champagne was formerly employed by Verizon for many years until his retirement. He was a member and past president of I.B.E.W. Local# 2322 and a member of the Telephone Pioneers.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Mark D. Champagne and his wife Kelly McLaughlin of South Royalton, VT; a daughter, Nicole J. Champagne and her spouse Daryl Isles of Woburn; two brothers, Paul Champagne of Rochester and Charles Champagne of Randolph; a sister, Marcia Champagne of Rochester; and three grandchildren, Anshel, Cecelia and Andrew.

He was the father of the late Christopher Champagne.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Southcoast Hospice, 200 Mill Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719.