Rudy "Big Daddy" Champagne

Breaux Bridge - A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Pellerin Funeral Home in Breaux Bridge for Rudy "Big Daddy" Champagne, 66, who passed away on January 14, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes.

A visitation will take place at Pellerin Funeral Home in Breaux Bridge on Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Pastor Ray Bluion will officiate at the funeral service.

Rudy was born on January 19, 1958 in Saint Martinville. A proud retiree of the U.S. Corps of Engineers, Rudy dedicated his career to serving his community with diligence and integrity. Yet, it was in his personal life that he truly shone. His love for the outdoors was evident in everything he did, from deer hunting in the serene woods to crawfishing in the quiet waters, where he found peace and adventure with friends. Among his fellow outdoor enthusiasts, he was affectionately known as "Big Daddy," a testament to his big heart and the way he embraced those around him with open arms.

Rudy's passion extended beyond hunting; he was a devoted sugarcane farmer, his hands expertly tending to the fields that sustained his family and enriched his community. He took great pride in vegetable gardening, sharing the fruits of his labor with neighbors and friends alike. Each summer, his garden overflowed with vibrant produce, a reflection of his nurturing spirit and commitment to hard work.

The camp was one of Rudy's favorite escapes, where laughter echoed through the trees as he and his hunting buddies created memories that would last a lifetime. These trips were filled with stories, camaraderie, and the beauty of nature, moments that brought them closer together and became the foundation of lifelong friendships

He is survived by his wife, Emmaline Champagne; son, Paul "Freddie" Champagne; step-sons, Jessie Horton (Sharon), Kevin Horton (Esther) and Scott Horton; step-daughter, Sherry Horton; brother, Ricky J. Champagne; sister, Christine Dupoy; daughter-in-law, Danita Champagne; 2 grandchildren; 16 step-grandchildren; and 12 step-great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul "Fred" and Mary Frederick Champagne; son, Mathieu R. Champagne; and his step-grandchildren, Cole Horton and Ella Grace Horton.

Pellerin Funeral Home of Breaux Bridge (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.