Bruce C Champlin passed from this life into God’s glory on August 1, 2026 at the home he shared with Margie Staggs, his beloved wife of many years. Bruce embraced life with curiosity, optimism, and determination. He carried the same enthusiasm into retirement that defined his distinguished veterinary career, enjoying golf, pool, fishing, travel, and, most of all, time with family. Just days before his passing, nearly 60 family members gathered to celebrate his 90th birthday at a joyful occasion filled with laughter, stories, and tributes to a man known for his integrity, kindness, wit, and gift for encouraging others. Whether sharing a favorite proverb or one of his original one-liners, Bruce rarely left anyone without a smile.

One of his favorite sayings was, “You can do anything you put your mind to, if you’re willing to work hard enough.” It was more than advice, it was the way he lived. Only hours after being discharged from the hospital, Bruce attended his birthday celebration, unwilling to miss time with those he loved.

A lifelong optimist, Bruce saw possibilities where others saw obstacles. He never gave up on people or the animals entrusted to his care. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Kansas State University in 1960, he built a respected veterinary practice in Dodge City, Kansas, while also working in the cattle industry. There he and his first wife, Natalia, raised their four children: Rhonda (Marc) Rossi, Bruce Bradley (deceased), Dirk (Te-ee-ah) Champlin, and Cyd (Christopher) Stein.

Born July 14, 1936, to Robert O. and Mildred L. (Huber) Champlin, Bruce graduated from Jamestown High School in 1954 and faithfully served in the United States Navy Reserve, receiving an honorable discharge in 1962.

Bruce’s commitment to service extended beyond his profession. In Dodge City he served on the Boot Hill Museum Board, the Jaycees, the Cattlemen’s Association, and the Masonic Lodge. He was a licensed pilot, a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and First United Methodist Church. Motivated by his compassion for abandoned animals, Bruce founded the Dodge City animal shelter. After moving to Arizona in 2001, he became active in playing pool at Grandview Terrace, the Grand Fishing Club, and Spirit of Grace Lutheran Church.

Bruce loved discussing fishing, politics, health, and faith. As we remember his life, we do so with confidence in Christ’s promise and with one of Bruce’s favorite reminders: “The best is yet to come.”

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ivona (Champlin) Kemp; his brothers, Robert Champlin, Ronald & Susan Champlin, Keith & Jane Christensen, Loren Christensen, and Damon Christensen; and his son, Bruce Bradley. He is survived by his wife, his children, his stepchildren, Denise (Tyler) Brown, Kristi (Dennis) Flax, Mickie (Jeff) Lara, and Michael (Amy) Staggs; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who will continue to share his stories, wisdom, and laughter.

A memorial service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026 at The First United Methodist Church in Dodge City, Kansas, followed by interment at Maple Grove Cemetery. In honor of Bruce’s love for animals especially his beloved cat, Poppy, memorial contributions may be made to the Dodge City Animal Shelter or the Ford County Humane Society in care of Swaim Funeral Home, 1901 6th Avenue, Dodge City, KS. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guestbook at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.