Earl B. ‘Peanuts’ Champion Pleau

Earl was born, March 24, 1939, in Ishpeming to the late Raymond & Mary Louise (Halverson) Champion and Clifford Pleau & Lillian (Halverson) Pleau. Earl worked for the LS & I Railroad and was a lifelong member of the Negaunee Township Fire Department.

On March 24, 1939, a son was born. He became a brother, a father and a friend. Our dad’s given name is Earl Bruce, but everyone knew him as Peanuts. Peanuts was the kind of guy that if he knew you as a friend or even a stranger and you needed his help he was there.

Our dad led a simple life, worked hard to support his family, and went for coffee every morning with his friends. Peanuts had two passions, and he loved both of them. One being a coach to the girls’ softball team. From the beginning of the season until the end of the season that is all he would talk about. You girls that our dad coached thank you for giving him some incredible memories. His second passion was going to the games with his best friend, Otto. We thank you for being there for him in his time of need. To our dad’s other friends, past and present, know that he cherished each and every one of you.

Peanuts, our dad, was a great father to son, Earl P. Pleau; daughter, Loriann Grimes (James); son, William Pleau (Sharon); son, Raymond Pleau; and daughter, Brenda Mapes (Jayson). Proud Grandpa to grandchildren: Jennifer, Justin, Ryan, Meghan, Sara, Billiejo, Katie, William, Sara, Blare, Annamarie; and nine great grandchildren. Earl is survived by his brother, Robert (Phyllis) Champion; and a sister, Donna Altobello.

We know in life that, “Death is no enemy of man; it is a friend who, when the work of life is done, just cut the cord that binds the human boat to earth, that it may sail on smoother seas.” No language can describe a father’s worth and ours was tried and true, but that was not called home until his tasks were done here.

Our Dad, Peanuts, would have said “Do not weep over my death, but be happy for I have loved a long and good life and like I’m supposed too, I’ve returned to my Father God as we all do.”

He would also tell us that in the flesh he may be gone, but in spirit he is always with us, his cord was cut and his boat went on to smoother seas. Until we meet again peace, love and happiness. Always yours, family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer, and will be announced by the Koskey Funeral Home.

Peanuts’ memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.