Joshua Daniel Hedges, 22, of North Madison, died on Dec. 17, 2010, due to an unknown cardiac condition, possibly related to his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was born on Sept. 7, 1988, son of Daniel and Cheryl Hedges.  Joshua was a "Life Scout" of Madison Troop 494.  He graduated from Hand High School in 2007 and joined the Marines.  

A collector of firearms and a proficient marksman, Joshua intended to become a police officer.  He had earned a degree in criminal science and was a licensed security guard.

Joshua's sweet smile and loving spirit will be truly missed.  A devout born-again Christian, Josh's favorite Bible verse was Phil 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Besides his parents, he is survived by his sister Angela and his grandparents, Thaddeus and Connie Chmielewski and Hubert and Jane Hedges.  

His funeral, attended by over 400 people, was held on Dec. 22, 2010 at the Living Rock Church in Killingworth.  His funeral procession was led by vehicles from the Madison Police and North Madison Volunteer Fire Company.  Josh was buried with full military honors in Rockland Cemetery, North Madison, assisted by members of the American Legion, the Boy Scouts, and U.S. Marine Corps ceremonial units. The Swan Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.