Man Overboard: The Counterfeit Resurrection of Phil Champagne

by Burl Barer

1982: Oregon businessman Phil Champagne, age 52, dies in a tragic boating accident off Lopez Island. He is survived by one ex-wife, four adult children, an octogenarian mother, and two despondent brothers. Phil didn't know he was dead until he read it in the paper. All things considered, he took it rather well. So did Phil's brother, Mitch, the beneficiary of a 1.5 million dollar policy on Phil's life.

1992: Washington restaurateur Harold Stegeman, famous for his thick, juicy steaks, is arrested by the Secret Service for printing counterfeit US currency in an Idaho shed. In addition to the bogus bills, Stegeman also has a fraudulently obtained passport, a fabricated Cayman Island driver's license, and Phil Champagne's fingerprints.

When the uproarious reality of Harold Stegeman's secret identity hit the headlines, the counterfeit resurrection of Phil Champagne became one of the most celebrated and hysterically funny true-crime stories of the 20th century. And while every supermarket tabloid and television talk show hounded after the untold story, only Edgar Award winner Burl Barer captured Champagne's confidence and received permission to detail Phil's post-mortem career of fraud, deception, trickery, lies, and fine prime rib, bringing to life the exploits of a man his family thought dead over a decade ago.

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Audiobook

Audible Audio

First published September 16, 2014

Reviews

[Ronnie Cramer · Rating 2 out of 5]

An interesting story that, in my opinion, would have benefited from a more straightforward telling. The "clever" and gimmicky style was mostly distracting.

[David Blaylock · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story of a dirtbag doing dirtbag things and getting caught.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phillip Wendell Champagne Sr. (52, a.k.a. Peter Donovan, aka Harold Richard Stegeman, aka Klaus Kruger) died in a boat accident on 8/31/82 at Lopez Island (Juan de Fuca, Washington).

Larry Wills (Larry’s Carpet & Furniture Cleaning) & John Robin (Phil brother) were on the boat also.

13 hrs. later & the US Coast Guard calls off its search/rescue.

Or did he really drown?

The insurance policy was for $1.5 million.

Federal Kemper (Life Assurance Company) only paid $700,000 to William M. Mitch Champagne (beneficiary, Portland real estate developer).

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A fairly well written true-to-life CSI intent on detail book. It wasn’t always very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were several grammar/typo errors, & repetitive written thoughts but no out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great crime caper movie, or mini TV series. 1 you won't want to put down. You do have a impressive resume. I finally pieced it all together, it was exciting but just OK for me, so I will have to rate it at 4/5 stars.

Thank you for the free (Story Cartel ) book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[bernard underwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cool

This was my first true crime book and it was outstanding this guy had the life most guys dream of the stars where in line.

[Victoria Tolley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down

Was intrigued by page one. Great read for true crime addicts like myself. A quite a few typos but easily overlooked because how good the book was.

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Man Overboard: The Counterfeit Resurrection of Phil Champagne by Burl Barer

Burl Barer’s Man Overboard: The Counterfeit Resurrection of Phil Champagne is a captivating true crime narrative that delves into a bizarre and complex case of identity fraud, deception, and the quest for truth. Originally published in 1995, this book has garnered attention for its meticulous research and engaging storytelling, making it an essential read for both true crime enthusiasts and scholars interested in the darker aspects of human nature and societal failure.

Overview and Structure
Man Overboard chronicles the life of Phil Champagne, who was assumed dead following a suspicious boating accident but resurfaced years later as a criminal mastermind. Barer’s work is structured chronologically, guiding the reader through the events leading up to Champagne’s disappearance, the investigations that ensued, and his eventual capture. This systematic approach not only provides clarity but also builds suspense, as readers are drawn into the unfolding mystery.

The narrative is punctuated by a variety of perspectives, including law enforcement officials, family members, and those who interacted with Champagne. This multifaceted view enhances the storytelling, revealing the complexities of the case and the impact of Champagne’s actions on those around him.

Themes and Insights
One of the prominent themes explored in Man Overboard is the nature of identity and the lengths to which individuals will go to escape their past. Champagne’s transformation from presumed victim to adept con artist raises significant questions about personal accountability and the moral ambiguity inherent in such transformations. Barer effectively examines the psychological motivations behind Champagne’s choices, offering insights into the human psyche and the allure of reinvention.

Another key theme is the critique of societal structures that enable deception. Barer illustrates how various systems—including law enforcement and the media—failed to piece together the truth in a timely manner, allowing Champagne’s fraudulent activities to flourish. This exploration resonates with broader societal concerns regarding the efficacy of crime prevention and the reliability of institutional responses to deception.

Characterization and Writing Style
Barer’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, masterfully blending factual reporting with narrative flair. His detailed characterizations bring Phil Champagne to life, portraying him as both a victim and perpetrator, which complicates reader perceptions and encourages empathy even in the face of his egregious actions. The author’s ability to elicit emotional responses from the reader while maintaining a critical stance on the subject matter is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Research and Methodological Rigor
The rigor of Barer’s research is evident throughout the book. He draws on a variety of sources, including court documents, interviews, and police reports, ensuring a well-rounded and accurate portrayal of events. The depth of his investigation allows readers to understand not only the specifics of the case but also the broader implications of Champagne’s actions within the framework of true crime.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Man Overboard: The Counterfeit Resurrection of Phil Champagne by Burl Barer is a compelling exploration of fraud, identity, and the human capacity for deception. Through meticulous research and an engaging narrative style, Barer provides readers with a nuanced understanding of a complex individual and the societal factors that can facilitate such remarkable crimes. This book is highly recommended for those interested in true crime, psychology, and the intricate interplay between individual choices and systemic failure. Barer’s work serves as both an engrossing read and a thoughtful examination of the nature of identity and morality in contemporary society.

[James Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty decent read, and an interesting story. The book's timeline jumps around in two or three different narratives, which keeps things moving. The author doesn't do a lot to distinguish Phil's aliases in the beginning but it quickly becomes clear.

One thing that this book does well is keep you interested. Phil Champagne wasn't a huge counterfeiter. He wasn't a particularly adept one. But he was charming, he did have a story, and he knew how to use flair to get from point A to point B. I appreciate that the author jumped right into it. We get a brief summary of who Phil is and how he became that person, but it isn't long before we get to where the story gets good: Phil's death, or at least the appearance of it. Normally in a non fiction book, it bothers me when you read parts that are clearly bullshit, window dressing to get published. Do you see that here? Probably, but with Phil, you don't really mind, even if the story didn't happen, you hope that it did.

If you are looking for action, for perfection, read The Art of Making Money. If you want the story of a guy you could have a beer with, the type of man who just might be your neighbor, read this book. You will enjoy yourself.

[Lili Dubuque · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this audiobook. Have to admit, true crime is one of my favorite genres, and Burl Barer nailed it. Apparently he knows Anne Rule, and I see her and Truman Capote as well as other great true crime authors in his writing.

Sure, we have all heard the story of Phil Champagne, but Burl really gets in his head and into the minds of others who knew him. (don't want to give anything away.) The narration was also spot-on!

This wasn't a gory true crime...in fact, in places, it was actually funny! Look out for Burl Barer, because he has a huge future in true crime writing.

[Jane Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

True Crime

This is a very unusual true crime book. I found it interesting, though it was difficult to believe. I think that men would enjoy it more than women-=it sounds like a man's fantasy. It is to be read purely for entertainment

[Louise McMurray · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy criminal story

Phil Champagne's story is told using the technique of alternating chapters in the distant past and recent past. It kept some suspense going, even though I knew Phil survived. Good storytelling. I recommend this book.

[Susan Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely find a good laugh in true crime - there are a million in this one. DO READ THIS!.

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm Giving It Three but Bauer Perhaps Deserves More

Bauer, the author of this book, shows real talent. It was of little surprise when following the book, we . learn he's behind the scenes for many Hollywood Productions. In this true crime saga, we learn of the adventures of convicted felon Phil Champagne. Not knowing a thing about the topic, I found it an interesting read. But more important than the topic, is Mr. Bauer's methodology for spinning a yarn.

I've read lots of true crime now, and Bauer is the first book I've read in this unique tone. The three words I'd use to describe Bauer are: funny, sarcastic, and smarmy. This to me is an extremely unique characteristic. How many times have you read Ann Rules and laughed out loud? Umm ... never? This book will have you laughing out loud every other page.

Which is why, on the other hand, I dislike the book. These are not victimless crimes Mr. Bauer. I would say the sentence did not fit the crime. Lots of investors and people lost their money. At least one man lost his life because Champagne actively pursued $200K in ill-gotten gains. Widows and orphans were bilked nationwide by his printer press. That fact seems lost on you.

The lesson here is "crime kinda pays." I think a better lesson for you to laser in on is: "the whole Damn system is corrupt." The farcical court system in the United States is nothing more than a tool for the Rich and politically powerful. Laser in on prosecutorial discretion, and select give enforcement. To me these two abortions of equal treatment under the Law undermine our Nations superstructure of trust, faith and hope more than any other. Want a concrete example? Follow closely the exploits of the future legal wrangling of disgraced ex-Governor John Kitzhaber and his Shack Up Honey Cylvia Hayes.

Still, again, I'm impressed with the author's talent. Oh one more thing: get an editor or fire your existing one. This thing is ful of typos.

[Shoshana Hathaway · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this story is, essentially, about one man, it is one of the most complicated tales I’ve ever read. For one thing, his name keeps changing, as does his location and his nefarious activities. By the time he is arrested for counterfeiting, he has been a smuggler, an unwilling drug runner, and a gigolo.

I found this book nearly as confusing as the subject, because the author switched, without warning, between time periods, identities and incidents. Perhaps there were spacing cues in the print edition, but there weren’t any cues in the audio edition, so I kept having to backtrack to figure out who and what was being discussed, and when the incidents occurred.

I would have preferred a longer, more meticulously organized and constructed book, but, when all is said and done, the subject was so astounding that I rather enjoyed the experience of reading about it.

The narration was, as always when performed by Mr. Pierce, immaculate in every respect. He is absolutely perfect for this sort of book, so good, in fact, that he is one of the few narrators whose presence can lure me into reading a book, even if I am not fairly certain that it will be of interest to me.

I received this book in exchange for this unbiased review via the courtesy of AudioBookBlast dot com. 3 out of 5 stars.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those stories where truth is stranger than fiction. It's an interesting story, told well except the author jumps back and forth in time unnecessarily.
It makes the story more difficult to follow and It seems there might have been some errors in dates. It would have been better to tell the story chronologically.


As expected, Kevin Pierce's performance is spot on for this style of book. It couldn't be better.

NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.

[Andrea B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoy true crime stories, so this was an interesting tale. The writing style was hard for me to follow and typos made it distracting to read. Otherwise it was a great story!