Lionel Ebenezer Challenger
March 24, 2026
Lionel Challenger, aged 83, quietly passed on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, Ontario. He was surrounded by his family’s love.
Born on February 4, 1943, in Tabernacle, St. Kitts (WI), he was the oldest of eight kids born to Aaron and Olive Challenger. When Lionel was eight years old, the family moved to Basseterre in St. Kitts. At age 19 while working as a police officer (#184), he met Rita-the woman who would become his wife-and eventually followed her to Canada. They tied the knot in Montreal on July 29, 1967. Their marriage lasted an amazing 59 years. Lionel leaves behind his wife; four children; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three sisters; and many nieces and nephews.
After a long career at Purolator, Lionel retired and dedicated himself to growing spiritually and helping others do the same. He was deeply devoted to Jesus Christ and happily served as a spiritual mentor and prayer warrior for lots of people. At age 80 he finally answered a call he’d felt all his life-he became an ordained Pastor. Whether someone was new to him or a longtime friend or fellow believer, if the Holy Spirit led him he’d gladly pray with or for them. He never missed a chance to lift someone up in prayer when they needed it.
Lionel loved sweets and had quite the reputation among his friends at the Mississauga 55+ Seniors Group for packing an unbeatable meal plate: chicken, cake slice, salad, fruits, lasagna, a bun-with ice cream on the side! Still though he kept lean by dancing the twist occasionally, power walking regularly-and spending hours praying without stopping for each request that came his way.
Lionel will be remembered as a caring husband, father figure (Papa), brother and good friend.
He is survived by his wife; children – Nigel; Tracey (Charles); Trevor (Son); Lori; grandchildren – Anique (Darius), Paul (Marie), Jonathan, Justin (Krysten), Anthony (Natty), Oneshia, Alex, Sebastian and Ethan; great-grandchildren – Maya and Kalia; sisters – Pearline (deceased), Sadie, Nell , Mary , Martha (deceased) , Don (deceased) , Dave (deceased) ; plus extended family and many friends.
Lionel’s life was truly a blessing – he’ll be missed by everyone who knew him.
May his soul rest peacefully forevermore under God’s light. Amen.
Psalm 23:4
A funeral service celebrating Lionel’s life will take place at North Bramalea United Church in Brampton on Thursday April 2 at three o’clock p. m. A Zoom link for online viewing will be shared soon.
The family asks that instead of flowers donations be made to any charity you wish.
