On May 7, 2011, God opened his arms to receive home Claudine Frances (Cerra) Champ. She was welcomed into heaven by her parents Walter and Frances Snider, husband Bennie Cerra Sr., sisters Virginia Preston and Vernetta Clark, brother Lloyd Snider and son-in- law Joseph DeBlase. She is survived by her husband Albert Champ, children Mary DeBlase, Carmen and Georgia Cerra, Bennie Jr. and Marsha Cerra, Ron and Margaret Cerra, Dewayne and Pam Siniawski, Joe and Reba Cerra, Ed and Tina Donegan, Phil and Valena Henderson, 19 grandchildren, 19 great- grandchildren and 12 brothers and sisters. Claudine was born September 6, 1928 in Shell City, MO. After being raised in Appleton City, MO she moved to Kansas City, MO where she met and married Bennie Cerra and raised their 8 children. Claudine dedicated her life to God and family. She demonstrated amazing strength to her children through deep love and faith. Because of her example each generation will walk with faith and continue the deep love of God and family. Several years after laying Bennie to rest she met and married Albert Champ on May 13, 1999. Although married a short time before Claudine was diagnosed with Dementia, Al took loving care of Claudine until her last breath. Al shares Claudine's love for the Lord and love of family. The family opens the doors for visitation on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 6–8 PM at New Beginnings Church of the Nazarene, Lee's Summit, MO. The Celebration of Claudine's Life will take place on Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 11 AM at the same location, with the burial to follow at Floral Hills Cemetery in Kansas City, MO. Pallbearers will be the 7 grandsons. Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.dwnewcomers.com (Arrangements: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133, 816-353-1218) D.W. Newcomer's Sons Funeral Homes, Cemeteries, Crematories.
Published in Kansas City Star on May 9, 2011