Christine A. Champagne

Christine A. Champagne, retiree of USD259, passed Wednesday June 11, 2025. Preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth L Ingham; her parents, Samuel Gwin Sr. and Deola Clifton (Bertrand); and her sister, Katharine Gwin. Survived by her brothers, Michael Gwin (Diana) and Samuel Gwin Jr. Chris was born September 22, 1950, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Kansas was her home for the last 50 years, but she was always happy to talk about her Cajun roots when asked about her last name. She enjoyed her holiday road trips to visit family in Lake Charles and loved it when they came to Wichita for a visit. A lover of dogs, frogs, and scary movies, Chris had her own pets through the years and later in life she enjoyed dog-sitting for friends when they were away. And if you owned a dog, rest assured she would ask how they were doing any time she spoke to you. She was a long-time collector of frogs, which she displayed in her home, or on her favorite t-shirts. Watching movies was also a favorite past-time, scary movies and science fiction the preferred fare. She would often joke (sort of) that she was not a Disney girl. Chris appreciated the everyday happenings of life, whether it was a day out shopping at Kohl’s and lunch with a friend, breakfast with a neighbor, chatting with her hairdresser, or rolling the dice with her Bunco group. She had many acquaintances from her work in the legal community, her time at WSU where she earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees, and her work in the Wichita school district. Chris’ one true love was her husband, Ken Ingham, who passed many years ago now. She loved, and was loved by, the family, friends, and neighbors she leaves behind. May she rest in peace. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.