Christopher Campion

On Tuesday, October 29, 2019, Christopher Lawrence Campion died unexpectedly.  He was 55.

Chris was born on April 16, 1964 in Milton, FL, beloved son of Bill and Kathy (Merten) Campion. He grew up in St. Paul, MN and graduated from Saint Thomas Academy, Mendota Heights, MN in 1982. He attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, where he was a Varsity Diver. He graduated with the Class of 1986 and was commissioned a Marine.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Chris earned his wings as a Marine Aviator in 1989. He received orders to MCAS Cherry Point, NC where he flew the EA-6B Prowler in numerous squadrons, most proudly with the Banshees of VMAQ-1. He also flew as an instructor with VAQ-129 in Whidbey Island, WA.  He served his country valiantly in Bahrain in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm with VMAQ-2.

After leaving the Marine Corps, Chris joined United Airlines where he flew the Boeing 727, 757, 767 and 777 and most recently as a Captain on the Boeing 737. Over the years, he also worked as a new hire supervisor and a line check airman for United and as a consultant for the FAA, most recently with Cobec Consulting.  Chris touched many lives and was well respected as a Marine, a pilot and a friend.  He was many FO’s (first officer’s) favorite captain to fly with.

Chris leaves behind his three daughters, Amanda, Ashley and Bridgette He loved and was so proud of his girls. He especially enjoyed his trips with them on their boat, Banshee, and bringing them on various travels around the world. He worked hard at being the best dad he could be.

Chris is also survived by his parents, Bill and Kathy (Merten) Campion; his close friend and supporter, Melissa Coad, and sons Jonathan and Will; his sister, Lisa Holter Ankel, and husband Felix and sons Jack, Mitchell and Atticus; his brother, Colin Campion, and son Connor; his sister, Jenna (Campion) Dolan, and husband Matt and children Sean and Lara; his former wife, Mary-Margaret Savage; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his eldest sister Katherine and his Grandparents, George and Vivian (Dahlhoff) Campion, and Lawrence and Dolores (Drury) Merten.

There will be a memorial service in Annapolis, MD on Tuesday, November 12th at 11:00 am at the United States Naval Academy Chapel, inurnment at the USNA Columbarium and reception following at the USNA Officers Club. The family wishes all who attend to wear bright or neon colored accents in memory of Chris and his love of wearing the same (especially while running).  There will also be a later service and inurnment in Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN in late Spring of 2020.

Arrangements are under McCully-Polyniak Funeral Home P.A., 3204 Mountain Road, Pasadena MD 21122. Please see www.usna.com/memorial-affairs-services-on-the-yard for USNA access instructions.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, please support your preferred charity or Chris’ high school alma mater, Saint Thomas Academy, 949 Mendota Heights Rd., Mendota Heights, MN 55120 in the link below.