Help Josue Izales' Family Continue His Legacy

Josue Antonio Izales of passed away peacefully on November 1st, 2024, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest and carrying on the torch that he passed. Josue is survived by his loving wife, Liliana Izales; his two children, Evander Antonio (2 y/o) and Carmen Elena (4 months); his brother, Alejandro Castaneda Izales; and his parents, Randolfo Izales and Gregoria Castaneda.

Josue was born on April 22nd, 1986, in Guatemala City, Guatemala. At the age of 3 he joined his parents in the United States who were in search of better opportunities and settled in Langley Park, Maryland. There Josue would live out his childhood and adolescence alongside his brother, Alejandro. Growing up he showed great interest in music, design and gaming – which continued throughout his life - but most of all he loved laughing, learning and challenging himself through his work and hobbies. Josue had a natural passion for helping and teaching others, selflessly putting them and their goals first. Most, if not all, that had the opportunity of knowing Josue would say that he impacted their life in someway.

He took great pride in considering himself a servant leader and a life-long learner, practicing principles of both across all aspects of his life. His curiosity never stopped even throughout his fight with cancer - he relentlessly researched his condition, sharing anything he discovered with his family and friends to help educate on preventive care. Josue believed anyone could achieve anything they wanted to - if they were passionate and willing to put the work in. Being their biggest fan he would always be the first to ask, “how can I help?”.

Many will remember him for his relentless go-getter attitude which was reflected in his career growth. From his first job at a record store in Langley Park, Maryland to being a sales leader as an account executive for Microsoft Federal in Washington, DC and everything in between – Josue took great pride in his work, no matter the role or industry, and felt that every single experience was an opportunity to learn something new. Based on the expansive knowledge from his diverse experiences he helped countless others find career growth through his acts of service – offering coaching and career guidance, interview and resume preparation, job referrals and even serving as a dedicated mentor to a select few.

Above all, Josue lived his life for his family. Every decision he made was driven by how it would affect his family and fulfill their goals. He worked toward a dream in which his family could live self-sustainably so that ultimately, he could spend all his time with them. Even during his fight with cancer, he did all he could to be present with his family and friends, disregarding his pain to be there for important moments and of course to crack a joke or two. Every moment was spent ensuring that his family was ready for his departure so that they could achieve all that he had envisioned and beyond.

As his brother, one of my favorite messages I ever got from him is below. This was right when I had first moved to NYC and was scared of what was coming my way:

"I approach life like video games. When the levels get rough and harder in the game, that means you're heading in the right direction. Same goes for life. As you try to level up and things get harder, you're doing it right. So proud of you man."

Support collected from this GoFundMe will go directly to daily expenses, medical bills and most importantly the college and investment funds of his kids.

In lieu of donating monetarily, the family accepts donation of time through services. Whether its giving a hand with one of the many passion projects Josue left behind around the house, career support and development for his wife, or just coming by to spend time with his kids - no act is to little. Please contact us directly through this page on how else you can support his family as they transition into a new chapter.