Winona, MN (KROC-AM News) - A well known retired judge from the region has died. According to an obituary posted by the Hoff Funeral Home in Winona, Dennis Challeen passed away last Thursday. He was 82-years-old. Challeen served as a Winona County Judge for 35 years before his retirement in 1999.

He was recognized nationally as a justice system reformer and was at the forefront of a movement that led to the now common practice of sentencing non-violent offenders to community work service. Challeen authored 5 books on the subject and other aspects of the criminal justice system.

His obituary indicated he requested a private burial service without a traditional funeral.

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