Obituary of Joshua A. Challeen

Joshua Andrew Challeen, 43, of Leland, North Carolina died on March 20, 2018 at the New Hanover Regional Medical Center, in Wilmington, North Carolina, following a car accident.  He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend and is dearly loved and will be deeply missed.

He was born on April 13, 1974, the son of the late Gary Challeen and LeeAnn Challeen and grew up in Osseo, Minnesota along with his brother, Jason Challeen.  Josh was a friend to all and will always be loved in both North Carolina  and his home state of Minnesota.

Josh was a great athlete. He excelled playing football for the Osseo Orioles.  He remained a loyal Minnesota Vikings fan after relocating to North Carolina.  He even recruited his young daughters to love none other than the Minnesota Vikings, instilling a deep disdain for the Green Bay Packers! 

By trade, Josh was a floor installer.  Later, he held various management positions in commercial and residential flooring. Josh was always willing to lend a hand or help a friend or family member in need.  He was fiercely loyal and treasured family life with his wife and two daughters. He enjoyed spending time with friends and  family whether it was on a lake in Minnesota or at the beach in Oak Island, North Carolina.

Josh is survived by his wife of 8 years, Christine Liola Challeen, two daughters, Cora and Sarah Challeen, his mother LeeAnn Challeen, brother Jason (Cheryl) Challeen, grandma Shirley Karstens, mother-in-law Celeste Liola, sister-in-law Suzanne (Zack) Liola Matus, brother-in-law David (Katherine) Liola and many other beloved extended family members. 

 A Memorial Service will be held at 11AM, Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at First Baptist Church in Cambridge, with a reception to follow.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday 5-8 PM at the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project (or a Veterans organization of choice), Homes of Hope India, St. Jude Hospital or other charities of our guests’ choice.