Col. Stanley Austin Challgren, USMC, Ret.
Photo
Stanley's obituary
Col. Stanley A. Challgren, USMC, Ret., 90, passed away on April 22, 2024 in Thousand Oaks, CA. He is survived by his sons, Thor and Eric, and his grandchildren, Sara, Trenton, Sydney and Clairice. He is the son of Axel and Marjorie Challgren, of Keister, MN. Stan was born in Leith, ND and is a graduate of Keister High School.
Shortly after graduating, Stan chose to serve in the United State Marine Corps. Because of his college educational experience, he was recommended to the officer training program and to flight school. Stan served his country for two separate tours in Viet Nam, flying helicopters in critical support missions. His commendations included the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal.
Stan earned a bachelors degree from Chapman University, and a masters degree from American University. He also was a graduate of the prestigious National War College in Washington, DC. From 1977 to 1979, Stan served as the wing commander of MAG-24 in Kaneohe, HI. He retired a full colonel from the Marine Corps after 28 years of distinguished service. Following his military career, Stan continued his love of aviation as a commercial airline captain for New York Air and Continental Airlines. He retired in 1996 to his mountain home in Evergreen, CO.
Stan had numerous passions. During his military years, he ran in a number of marathons. He was an avid sailor and spent many weekends on the Chesapeake Bay with his family. In retirement, he enjoyed skiing in Colorado. He also built two airplanes that he himself flew. He was a loving father to Thor and Eric, and was an active participant in their activities like Boy Scouts.
He was a devoted husband to his wife of 60 years, Sally Challgren. In their retirement years, they travelled the world together. Sally made her transition in 2019, and Stan missed her deeply. Stan will rest alongside Sally at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA.
Send to someone
Want to stay updated?
Send flowers
Memories & condolences
With our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss, our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.
All our love,
Sta…
With our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss, our hearts go out to you during this difficult ti…
With our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss, our hearts go …
Send flowers
Share this memorial website
Share with others
