Warbird Information Exchange

Yesterday morning I read on Facebook that the US warbird collector Doug Champlin died yesterday.

I am rather surprised that this news has seemingly not been mentioned here, or at other outlets. Is the information accurate?

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Two close friends of Champlin, Jerry Crandall and Barrett Tillman, have posted in regards to his death over on the Hyperscale forums so I'm afraid it is confirmed. God speed Mr. Champlin.

Dave

Sadly true- I hesitated in posting as I wasn't sure if it was 'public' or not. Dave Goss informed me, ironically we have just completed a major article on GossHawk for the next issue, particulary focusing on Dave's early years with Doug at the Champlin Museum. Doug was a great mentor and friend to Dave over the years.
Dave's daughter intervewed Doug at his request, so at least some of his legacy will survive in his own words and we maybe able to follow up with some of it in the future.

Dave

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What a great guy.He certainly did a lot in the warbird movement.Sorry to hear of Dougs passing.Blue skies.

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Hang The Expense

Very sorry to hear this news. I always wanted to see his collection & meet him.
I have always had a lot of respect for him & his efforts.
My condolences to all affected by his passing.
Thank you Doug for all you did sir!
Robbie

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Fly Fast Make Noise!

Very sorry to hear this news. He really was a great guy. Rest in peace Doug!

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Albert Stix Jr.
"Work is the curse of the drinking class"

Aside from his wonderful collection, he was a nice guy.
Back in 1990, I was in grad school in Phoenix. I had to do a special project for a class and I did it on his collection. He was generous with his time and facility. A nice guy.

Seeing photos on his office wall, I learned he was also a player in the Indy 500. Sounds like he had a fun life.

RIP.

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In the 95-96 time frame, I was in PHX for 737 training and I made it a point to see his museum and the CAF hangar while I was there. Without passionate individuals such as him, the warbird population wouldn't be where it is today. Blue skies & tailwinds, Mr Champlin.

Ken

Another of the early greats among the original 'warbird movement'. Rest in peace Doug, and thanks for your extensive contributions toward preserving critical aviation history!

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Rob Mears
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I had the chance to visit his collection in Mesa back in the mid 90's and it was so cool to see those birds together before they scattered into the wind.

Thanks Mr. Champlin, Vaya con Dios

They didn't scatter to the wind. They are mostly in Seattle except the FW-190 and its just up the road a little bit.

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Ben

Very sad to hear of his passing.

When I was a teenager back in the 80's I wrote to the Champlin Air Museum and to my surprise they sent me a large manila envelope with a brochure, stickers and post cards from the gift shop. I stared at that FW-190 for, days, weeks and every once in a while I will dig it up and page through it.

RIP Mr. Champlin and Thank you for all your hard work, you will be missed by many.