- Date Of Birth: August 30, 1928
- Date Of Death: October 7, 2014
- State: Idaho
Mary A. Champion
1928 – 2014
Mary A. Champion died October 7, 2014 at a care center in Boise, Idaho after a courageous 2 year battle with cancer.
Mary was born in Hermiston, Oregon on August 30, 1928, the youngest daughter of William and Ella Kirby. Mary was the last surviving member of a pioneering Eastern Oregon family who trekked across the plains in covered wagons and settled in Eagle Valley.
Her early education started in Baker City, Oregon where she graduated from St. Francis Academy High School.
Mary’s greatest gift was the gift of love and devotion her son Brent provided over the years, and who stood by her side day and night. Mary extended a hand in friendship to all and always put others before herself. One of her greatest joys was looking after her cats Buster, Pee Wee, and Mommy Cat. They provided hours of entertainment, mischief, and comfort as well. She never turned down a stray animal in need of a meal or a place to rest. Mary also enjoyed many trips over the years to Jackpot, Nevada to pull the handles on the slot machines.
Mary resided at Marquis Care in Boise, Idaho during her courageous battle with cancer and was loved by all, residents and staff alike. She developed many lasting friendships and always did what she could for others. Her compassion made a difference in everyone’s lives. Special thanks to Pat and Phyllis Thompson of Boise, Idaho, Jim and Carolee Kellogg of Fresno, California, Mrs. Margaret Uehlin of Greensboro, Georgia, Mr. James McCaleb of Frisco, Texas and Mary’s family for their devotion, love, and support they provided. A special thank you also to Mary’s niece Kathie Gallardo of San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico. Kathie was very supportive to Mary and Mary was a dear friend and inspiration to Kathie. In addition, thank you to the Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Cancer Care center.
Mary is survived by her son Brent Cottle of Boise, Idaho, numerous nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by her parents William and Ella Kirby, four brothers, Randall Kirby of Ontario, OR ; Verdell (Skinner) Kirby of Baker City, OR ; Bill Kirby of Baker City, OR ; and James Kirby of Bremerton, WA. Three sisters, Mrs. Sylvia Laughlin of Estacada, OR ; Mrs. Doris Guthrie of San Lorenzo, CA ; Mrs. Florestine Landreth of Baker City, OR.
