It is with great sadness that the family of James Matthew Champ announces his passing after a brief fight against Esophageal cancer. He was born on April 6, 1963 and passed at the age of 55 at his home in Independence, Mo., on April 24, 2018.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Dollie and Dennis Champ, and three brothers, Daniel Champ, Thomas Champ and David Champ.
He leaves behind his oldest brother, Al “Butch” Champ and his only sister, Mildred “Millie” Harrison, as well as many nieces, nephews and a lot of friends, all of which he loved dearly as did we all love him very much as well. He will surely be missed!
James was an awesome musician and loved New Orleans. He worked for 7-11 and had many friends there. There will be two Celebration of Life gatherings for him. One for the family in Excelsior Springs, Mo., and one in Independence, Mo., for friends. Dates have yet to be determined. Feel free to contact Millie at 816-799-3592 for more info.
“Deep down in Louisiana close to New Orleans … way back up in the woods among the evergreens…”
Our Sincere Condolences
Although I did not know James it is with my deepest sympathy I send love to my friend Mildred and family in the loss of, beloved by many, brother James. Too quickly the ones we love are taken without notice. May James final resting place be one that would make him the happiest and most appreciate. Hold fast my dear friend.
Much love, Michelle.
You left way too soon James. I have so much I wish I had said. I love you Uncle!
Barbara Champ
I am at such a loss of words my heart is broken I was not able to say goodbye. James and I were band mates for a couple years he became our lead guitarist and he shredded (Midtown Hounds). I met James when I was 17 in Westport at my hot dog stand (Wunda Dog). James even wrote the Wunda Dog theme song. I have the recording if any family or friends would like to hear. Also a live album with James of whom we all called Dr. Wunda. James played his guitar next to my Wunda dog stand for as long as I was there 1997-2005. He was such a gem to have in my life and he would help me take my dog stand back to our shop at 25th and Troost every night after the bars closed. It was always a great relief to have James with me and keep a eye out he was like a guardian angel. James was like family to me he was always welcome at my house and would house sit every time I would leave KC.
James was loved by all of Westport he was a Westport staple out there playing his songs with his guitar behind his back with small crowds enjoying his music nightly.
I’ve been trying to find James for the last decade and finally found this obituary. I still get asked where’s James? My Deepest condolences to all of James’s friends and family he had a heart of gold and was such a great friend to me and will always be in my memories.
Jason B Walstrom