Philip A. Champagne, 72, passed away at Haven Hospice in Palatka, Fla., surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hartford, Conn., he moved to Maine in the late ‘70s. Starting out as a printer, he was an artist and antique dealer for more than 50 years. He attended University of Hartford and Wadsworth Athenum Art schools. He was an Army veteran.

He was an ardent student of history and an active Civil War re-enactor. He belonged to many historical societies in Maine and Florida and the Owls Head Transportation Museum. Phil also belonged to C.A.R.B.S. Hot Rod Club most of his life and is the founding member of N.S.K.K. Motorcycle Club. He was also a member of the Rockland Elks Club.

He leaves his daughters, Carolyn Champagne and Lisa Rizzo (Edward) of Wethersfield, Conn.; granddaughters, Danielle Inda (Alex) of Las Vegas, Nev., and Michelle Champagne of Wethersfield, Conn. He is also survived by his former wife, Andrea and brothers Donald (Yvette), Robert (Cathy) and Ronald (Gerry). He also leaves several nieces and nephews. Phil will be truly missed by his family and longtime good friends in Connecticut, Maine and Florida and his faithful companions Gal and Peanut. Phil enjoyed life as a free spirit. He wanted to be remembered as a boy from Hartford who gave his soul to Maine and painted a yellow line through life.

A memorial for Phil will be held Sept. 16. Meet at Rockland Harbor at noon with refreshments on the M/V Monhegan followed by a ride to his house in Warren.