Compiled by The Bedford Citizen
The flag at Town Hall flew at half-staff this week to honor Bedford’s former Town Accountant Debbie Champagne who passed away on February 2 after a courageous battle with ALS. Debbie worked for the Town for more than 10 years, until October 2017 when she had to retire due to the sudden onset of her illness.
Town Manager Rick Reed said, “Local governments in Massachusetts today often encounter great difficulty in finding qualified municipal accounting professionals who are well-versed in our state’s municipal finance legal and procedural requirements. Because of her experience, knowledge, and dedication, the Town of Bedford was very fortunate to have had Debbie Champagne serving as our Town Accountant since 2007. She was a kind and hard-working professional. All of us who worked with Debbie on a regular basis were very saddened to learn of her passing last week. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to her family.”
Finance Director Victor Garofalo added, “Debbie was not only a colleague but a friend. She was someone I trusted and always relied upon when I had a question or an issue. Debbie was an amazing, compassionate, and caring person, always willing to help out. More importantly, Debbie was part of our family in the Finance Department, and she will be greatly missed. Everyone here is saddened by her death.”
Debbie enjoyed kayaking, skiing, and many other outdoor activities. She had a love of sports and enjoyed trips to the Patriots and Red Sox games. Debbie is survived by her husband Ken and her children Katie and Alex. Debbie became a new grandmother in June when her grandson Liam was born.
A full obituary and guest book are available by clicking this link.