David I. Champlin

David I. Champlin, 74, of Hastings, passed away Monday, May 5, 2025. A Vietnam veteran, David served in the Army from 1967 – 70 when he was honorably discharged. He was a member of the American Legion for 16 years.

He worked the majority of his life as a truck driver, finally retiring after 30+ years with Raymour & Flanigan in Syracuse. David was always the life of any party; he loved to make people laugh. He enjoyed many years of boating and had some of the most memorable boat trips that can never be forgotten. He always tinkered with all kinds of fun “toys”, from snowmobiles, three wheelers, four wheelers to the unforgettable dune buggy.

David’s true happiness came when spending time with his family, whom he loved dearly. Whether it was camping at Fair Haven, family trips to Cancun, Costa Rica, and Puerto Vallarta, or a simple back yard BBQ with family and friends, it didn’t matter what it was, he was always up for a gathering and he never failed to make everyone laugh. His quick wit and humor will surely be missed.

David is survived by his son, Scott (Krista) Champlin of Folsom, CA and his daughter, Karri Hibbert of Oswego; 2 brothers, Greg (Mary Beth) Champlin of Florida and Chris (Margie) Champlin of Arizona; his 4 grandchildren: Alexandra (Tim Seto) Garcia, Chris (Joell Vogt) Hibbert, Jake (Cierra Asencio) Hibbert, and Danielle Nelson; along with some special nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

David was predeceased by his parents, Ann Nelson and Richard Champlin.

The family would also like to express a heartfelt thank you to David’s best friend, Charlie Zaharak, for everything he continued to do to help David throughout this journey and for many years prior.

Contributions may be made to the D.A.V., c/o VA Regional Office, 130 S. Elmwood Ave, Ste 620, Buffalo, NY 14202.

Burial at a later date will be in NY State Veterans Cemetery, Finger Lakes, NY.