William Campion

Obituary of William Campion

William Campion, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, godfather, and friend died August 31st at his home of thirty years in Punta Gorda, surrounded by family. He was ninety-two and survived by his wife of thirty-six years Anita, nine children, many many grand and great grandchildren, and godson. He was predeceased in death by his mother Marge, brother Joe, and his first wife, June, the mother of six of his children. William, known to family and friends as Bill or “Camp”, leaves behind a legacy of love of family, influence in business and his community, dedication to his church, and commitments to helping those less fortunate. He brought a sense of joy and wit to many of his endeavors and relationships, as our resident funny guy and patriarch. Born in 1930, in Newark, New Jersey, Bill was determined from an early age. He attended Queen of Peace High School in Kearny, New Jersey, where in his senior yearbook, he was described as always looking for the silver lining: “Why take life seriously - you’ll never get out of it alive… smile troubles away… a smile, a wisecrack, and a hearty laugh, that’s Camp… a secret ambition - but keeps it secret.” Deeply patriotic throughout his life, he served our country as an Army Corporal during the Korean War and was dedicated to his political ideologies. After returning from his service, he eventually got a job with Ekco Products as a salesman in 1955, working his way up the ranks to become President in 1975 - leaving his mark across the baking industry. Highly esteemed by his colleagues, even if known as the “breaker”, he used his business acumen and wit to drive influence and foster long standing relationships that would endure well beyond his tenure as a leader and peer. In a letter from Ekco Products, marking twenty-five years of service to the company, they wrote of his “friendly and spirited side”, “During the Christmas holidays of 1975, Bill took it upon himself to award every one of the Glaco employees at Cicero Avenue, an extra holiday, without first receiving AHPC approval via an AHT. Bill claimed ignorance, as he just became President and assumed he could change policy at his direction,” which was exemplary of Bill’s giving heart and proclivity for doing things his way. He was never afraid of a challenge or navigating a solution, especially if it meant doing good for others. His impact extended beyond his company, as he was instrumental in helping found a baking school that still exists today. After retirement, Bill, and his wife Anita, moved to Punta Gorda, where they became very involved in the community. Bill served as President of Twin Isles Country Club from 1999-2000, as well as Membership Chairman, and a working member on the Board of Directors. He also served as an usher at Sacred Heart Church for many years. He loved our Blessed Mother. All those that knew Bill, knew his wicked sense of humor and his love of cards. Whether frequenting the craps table or trying his hand at a game of Texas Hold ‘Em, Bill could spend hours in his favorite haunts in Vegas - where Bill and Anita spent several summers. He played a mean golf game and loved having his head scratched. Watching Bill and Anita dance the cha-cha was pure joy, in the ease with which he moved across the floor that harkened back to a different time as much as it embodied the synchronicity of their love, an inspiration for so many. Strong in his convictions yet soft in his support, Bill had friends all over the country. And we remember how he often gave chances to those who didn’t have them. If there was an opportunity he could provide for the under-supported, he would, whether that was with intention with where he spent his money, who he partnered with on a project, or by volunteering at SCORE and the Chamber of Commerce. One of his loves and ambitions was to help young people build a financial road to their futures and he helped many. It would often be his children or grandchildren that would receive a letter in the mail, with a stock tip or an article on their chosen industry. Our patriarch was the embodiment of integrity, respect, and hard work. We will all carry the memory of this incredible man, father, grandfather, godfather, business partner, and friend in our hearts and minds until we are reunited with Bill in Heaven. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to one of the following: St. Vincent Depaul, Boys Town or a charity of your choosing.
Wednesday
7
September

Visitation

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, September 7, 2022
Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home
9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road
Punta Gorda, Florida, United States
941-639-1171
Wednesday
7
September

Visitation

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, September 7, 2022
Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home
9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road
Punta Gorda, Florida, United States
941-639-1171
Thursday
8
September

Funeral Mass

10:00 am - 11:00 am
Thursday, September 8, 2022
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
211 West Charlotte Avenue
Punta Gorda, Florida, United States
9416393957
Thursday
8
September

Entombment

11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Thursday, September 8, 2022
Charlotte Memorial Cemetery
9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road
Punta Gorda, Florida, United States
941-639-1171
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