Name: West Resthaven Funeral Home
Address: Glendale, AZ

As Easter Weekend is here, we realize the total gift we have been given as your parents Eric.  Your legacy to us has been a parents dream of thanking the Lord for the 44 years and 4 months of memories.  Your birth was a celebration of our hearts joy when we first saw you.  In fact, the nurses actually came to the room and told me how your father was down at the nursery window strutting his fatherhood to perfect strangers.  Then he took himself out to the restaurant for a steak dinner to celebrate his being a father for the first time.  Of course the joy of Julie giving us a prayed for family of four.  Yes, a gift of a healthy son and daughter.  Memories over these years are so meaningful.  Eric we have always and will always love, cherrish, and be so proud to be your parents.  Yes, you came into our lives with a heart felt joy and you left our view on a heartfelt day....Valentines Day 2010.  You have been and will always be close to our hearts.  As your mother, I am at peace for I know you are with the Lord......God Bless You Now and Always til we meet again...........Your earthly mother, Jo

I was just in Arizona for Spring Training this past week when I learned of Eric's passing.  I went to high school with Eric.  He was such a special person, even then, friendly toward everyone.  I remember just days before graduation at an event at the school that Eric had mentioned to me that although he wanted to walk across the stage for graduation that he just wasn't sure he had the strength.  He certainly surprised everyone at the ceremony and there wasn't a dry eye in the house.  I saw Eric last at our 20th reunion in Phoenix in 2004 and he had not changed.  He has been an inspiration to me throughout my life and he will continue to do so.  I have talked about Eric to my family and my fiance's children so that they too will know what true character, integrity and courage looks like.  While I am deeply saddened by his passing, I am certain that he is in heaven watching over everyone he ever came in contact with.  I know that I have been truly blessed just by knowing him. 

Lisa Maland
Apollo High School
Class of 1984

I first met Eric when we both were going to physical therapy down at The Wasson Rehab. center back in 1985.  We hit it off right off the bat since we both shared a common interest, SPORTS.  Just when I thought I couldn't find a more passionate sports fan than myself, their sat Eric.  Since we both shared our love for the local teams, we would spend sometimes up to 20 minutes after therapy just analyzing away.  Though sports was important, Eric's true love was with God and his family.  He got the biggest kick out of his Nephew Jacob riding on the front of his chair.  In closing, I have never met a person with higher character than my good freind Eric.  I will definitly miss our weekly chats we had on the telephone.  Every time the Suns, Cards, D-Back's, or ASU win, I will look up to the heavens and tell Eric that win's for you.  May God bless everybody,    Ken Soots

just heard the news about eric's passing. went to apollo as well with eric. from fellow students of apollo our condolances

Dear Jo and Vern,
Just heard of Eric's passing.
It was a blessing to get to meet him and share time with your family.
I am sure he is now a member of a much larger family. One in which we will join with him some day .
Sincerely, William Walther

Vern, Jo, Julie, Mike and Jacob,
We are truely saddened by the news and our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Pat called and left word while we were out of the country and it has given us pause. Eric's life was such a tribute to courage, dedication, & facing adversity but most of all to Love, both from himself and to him from his family and friends. His passing saddens us but we rejoice in the knowledge that with his earthly struggles over, he stands in heaven with God, but also with his aunts and uncles - especially Uncle Bud and Aunt Lou, who cared for him deeply. The stories they will tell...
May the Lord keep you safe and at peace.
John & Leslie

I helped care for Eric when he first came home from Craig Rehab when he was 15.  He was full of courage and strength of character and never stopped working to regain his ability. I am thankful I knew him.  Wendy

Dear Lock family,

My mom wrote me to tell me of Eric's passing. Please know you are being prayed for all over the world. I am not sure if you will remember me, Julie and I were friends through school and through church (First UMC Glendale), we were confirmed together. I have so many memories of Eric, primarily of him teasing Julie and me! 
I also was at GCU with Eric so I would see him once and awhile. He was a huge inspiration for me and I will think of him often whenever I am treating patients at St Joes (I am an OT there).
May God continue to be your strength and comfort.

Jo, I am so sorry to hear of Eric's passing. I know you have many wonderful memories to sustain you.

I was so sorry to hear of Eric's passing.  He has always been an inspiration to myself and everyone he touched.  I still will never forget attending his 12th birthday party/sleepover.  Eric talked us into going on a snipe hunt and we were eager to try it.  As we donned our protective gear (old baseball masks and extra clothing so the snipes wouldn't hurt us when we caught them) Eric kept telling us "this will be so fun!"  We were slow to catch on and gladly went through the Lock's neighborhood banging pots/pans and yelling "Here Snipe, Here Snipe"..what a sight those 12 year olds must have been. He was right though we had a lot of fun!  I still owe you for that one Eric, and I  know one day in Heaven we will be laughing about it all over again. Jo, Vern, and Julie I am so sorry for your loss he was truly a great person.  Heaven just became a little bit better now that he is there.  God Bless

I was very sad to hear of Eric's passing.  I knew Eric from Apollo High School.  I was his secret Santa when he was on the wrestling team.  I will always remember Eric.  My prayers are with his family.

Kathi (Rollins) Walp
Apollo High, Class of 1982

I have thought about Eric my whole life. God bless you my good Brother and I look forward to playing chase with you in heaven ! Look me up when I get there !

Our sincere condolences to your family.  While we did not know Eric well Mort enjoyed meeting him and visiting at a few of the Sun's games this year.  Mort was so impressed with him and his father's (family) dedication to ensuring his life was meaningful.  We truly believe Eric is at peace and happy.
Jan and Dr. Mort Copenhaver

I was blessed to know Eric through church, and one of my fondest memories was of hearing him sing a solo in the church choir.  I know how hard he had to have worked to be able to do that, but hearing it was like hearing an angel.  By all rights, he shouldn't have been able to do that, but just try telling Eric that.  

I will miss seeing glimpses of him on camera at Diamondback games, but am thrilled to know that he's in his home run trot at last.  My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Lock family.

Eric's bright spirit and outlook on life are a tribute to his parents.  I had Jo Lock as a teacher in 4th grade (1976) and she inspired me in ways that she probably doesn't even know.  I often wondered how Eric was doing and was saddened when my mom told me of his passing. 

The entire Lock family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Eric is a great young man.
What a trouper, always upbeat, positive, an a good person.
I will very much miss his wonderful smile.
Sincerely,   Dr. Dan Trampe  (Dentist)

You have our deepest sympathy for the loss of your son, Eric. We understand how hard it is to lose a child.  Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers have always been with you.
In Memory: Jay B. Bunch 10/3/60-12/29/65;Megan Elizabeth Hendrickson 8/20-21/98; Rick E. Bunch 9/20/64-9/2/98 
Ray and Gloria Bunch, Deena Bunch Reynolds, Donna Bunch Hendrickson

It was with great sadness that we learned of Eric's passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. 

The Greazzo Sisters

Dear Jo and Family,

Just to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dora and John Nickell
Joanna (Nickell)  Dan, Jared and Tatem Finkenkeller
Clara (Nickell) and Adam Higgins

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.  Roger Jackson

Vern, Jo, and Julie-
We were taken back to hear of Eric's passing.  Over the years we great memories of the great times Rob had coaching Eric on his teams, teaching American Goverment / American History /Debate and all at American School.  While I will never forget the smiles he had as he created meals in the Home Economics kitchen.   Or the velour robe he made as an eighth grader.  We both knew at that early time that Eric was a special young man and he would have an impact on others, and he certainly did.  

Seeing Eric at ASU football games in the endzone section where we often sat years ago and the positive conversations we had were wonderful memories as well.

My most distict memory was sneaking into the ICU once to see him at St Joseph's and the smile on his face as his old Home Ec. Teacher dared to tell the nurses she was related to him just to get a chance to say hello and how we were all pulling for him.

Please know Eric touched more people then you can ever imagine, what a wonderful young man that we are happy will now be free to move on his own and do what he wants.

Loving memories,
Rob & Cheryl Mariani

My deepest condolences go out to Julie, Vernon and Jo.  It was my honor to get to experience Eric's positive spirit and good humor.  Though I cannot be with you at this time, know that my thoughts are with you.

I was so sad to hear this evening of Eric's passing. Eric and I went to Apollo High and graduated together in 1984; he was my lab partner in Science. I remember him as a smart, sweet, humble and witty guy with lots of determination. 

My heart and prayer goes out to his family and loved ones.  May your wonderful memories of Eric grant you some peace in your time of sorrow.  

Eric is walking with the angels now and will be with you forever in your hearts. 

Rachel Fanum - Apollo H.S. Class of 1984

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Eric was the epitome of courage and strongly demonstrated that 'nice guys do win'!  His passing will leave a void in the lives of all who have known him.
We are deeply saddened.

Dear Jo, Vern, Julie, Mike, Jacob and Aunt Ruth,

Our hearts are so full of sadness that Eric is not physically with us.  And also full of such joy knowing him, going to a concert with him, visiting, family reunions and visits in Glendale. Know that the testament and the difference he made in this world will live in our hearts.
Love, Sharon K. and all the Kumler cousins.

I was very saddened to hear of Eric's passing.  I too was at the Sun Dome that day when our Apollo 1984 class graduated, and Eric walked across the stage to get his diploma.  I also remember square dancing in P.E. Freshman year with him, and how he would mischieviously put my pencils on top of the chalk board in science class, as I was a bit vertically challenged.  May he rest in peace, and dance with the angels in  Heaven.

We were very saddened to hear of Eric's passing.  We both have very fond memories of him.  

I knew Eric from Apollo High School, Class of '84.  He was such a courageous young man who was giving, compassionate, and had a wonderful sense of humor.  One of my best memories of high school was watching him walk across that Sundome stage to receive his diploma with our classmates.  I also enjoyed talking about Suns games with him.

Bill knew Eric from grade school days, growing up and wreaking havoc together on the streets of Glendale.  He, Eric, Steve Roper, Rod Card, and Curtis Rogers often spent many summer hours swimming, playing football, basketball and whiffle ball.  

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lock family.  

We know Eric is in heaven playing all the sports he so avidly loved to do.  We will miss him.

Dale and I met Eric in the early 90's at the Physical Therapy location in Phoenix owned by an older man, named Dick, I think.  We were so inspired by Eric's upbeat attitude and warmed by his amazing smile. He brought us much joy each time we saw him.  Now his disability is gone and he can soar on eagle's wings through our eternal home.

Of all my Jr. Hi's, Eric was the one I was most proud of, for many, many reasons.  I am sad that he has left us, but I rejoice in the knowledge that he is dancing with Jesus.

Eric was a wonderful soul and a great guy to talk to about sports.  It was my pleasure to sit with him in the choir and just chat while waiting for the service to start.  May God Bless Eric and Keep Eric.  Whenever I see a Diamondback's game, I will see Eric sitting in the right field box right behind the fence.  I will miss him and his warm smile.

I knew Eric from Apollo High and was saddened to hear of his passing.  My prayers are with his family.

Sheryl Fogarty
Apollo High, Class of 82

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Eric Andrew Lock from the Apollo High School graduating class of 1984.  For those of you who did not know him, his story was an encouraging one of strength, faith, perseverance and overcoming unbelievable odds.  Those of us privileged enough to be his friend witnessed firsthand how one man can make a difference in this life.   His unprecedented faith in God, and his struggle to recover was the most incredible journey to behold.  

Eric broke his neck during his freshman year in his first and last wrestling match for Apollo High School on December 11th 1980 at Sunnyslope High School.  A doctor in the audience kept him alive long enough to be airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital where he was not expected to make it through the evening.  After a long surgery and many prayers he survived.  Eric spent approximately 6 months in the hospital on a respirator before gradually weaning himself off to breathe on his own.  This was one of the biggest challenges he overcame.  He was transferred to Good Samaritian hospital where he began physical therapy and learned how to live in a wheelchair.  Eric vowed that he would walk again.  He wanted to graduate and walk to get his diploma.  

He went to Texas to participate in a controversial walking program.  He learned a great deal and returned totally inspired.  All this time he was being home schooled with the intention of  graduating with his high school class.  In 1984, at the Apollo High School graduation (Sun City dome) he stayed true to his word.  His sister and father helped stand him up, and you could hear a pin drop it in the dome.  As they balanced him on each side, quietly at first, and then growing louder, you could hear people yelling encouragements to him.  He walked across the stage, got his diploma and returned to his wheelchair to a deafening crowd of classmates and families on their feet screaming, jumping, and crying for Eric.  It was one of the most unforgetable moments in a lifetime, both for him and everyone who was there!  

Eric continued physical therapy throughout his lifetime.  He graduated from Glendale Community College and then continued on to graduate from Grand Canyon University as Magna Cum Laude.  He always gave his best in whatever he did.  Graduating with Honors and, I believe, only getting one B grade in all his classes.  (This particular teacher didn’t believe in students receiving A grades).  Throughout the years, Eric continued to overcome many struggles - with operations, hospital stays, and what comes along with being confined to a wheelchair for the remainder of his life.  He handled all this with dignity, grace, a positive attitude, and an undying faith in his maker.
For those of you wishing to pay respects to Eric, services are as follows:
Friday  viewing 5-8pm at Resthaven Cemetery 6290 W. Northern Ave.
Saturday funeral at 11am at First United Methodist Church 7102 N. 58th Dr. Glendale, Az 85301
Burial immediately following at the gravesite at Resthaven Cemetery 6290 W. Northern Ave.
Obituary and on-line guest book in the Arizona Republic on 2/18/10.  http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/azcentral/
Eric was such a wonderful friend!!

Eric was AWESOME. We grew up together.  I have black and white photos of him, Steve Roper and I in a parade in downtown Glendale. We had great times in Cub Scouts and lots of fun and learning at 1st United Methodist Church of Glendale.  Eric was the best and will be missed greatly.

I will always remember Eric as an exceptional man and most loyal friend to all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Eric will be missed, but his memory will continue to inspire us to keep up the fight to survive and leave this world a better place. Thank you, Eric, and blessings to all your compadres who are still here and have unfinished work to do.

The loss of someone we love is never easy, but there is uncomprehendable joy knowing that Eric is dancing and singing in eternal perfection!

We will all miss Eric so much.  You and your family have made such a positive impact on our family and those memories are cherished in our hearts forever.  We now have another angel watching over us, keeping us safe from harm.
Love always,
Dean, Julie, Sarah, Katie & Emily Grace Stone

I knew Eric in high school. I was saddened to hear of his passing. He was an inspiration to all of us. He will be missed
Mary Gray-Lentz Apollo 83

I am sorry to hear that Eric has passed; he was always an inspiration to me and so many others. My sympathies are with the Lock family and all his many friends.

Eric was joy, his light may be dimmed as he trancends his journey from Life to Life Everlasting.  Weep not, weep not, he is now asleep in the arms of Jesus.

We will all miss Eric and his loving, sweet spirit.  He was a true role model and inspiration.  God just received a very special angel.

With love and deepest sympathy,
Megan Mitchell

Eric always brought joy into our family's life, for many years. We are already missing his presence however we rejoice in the knowledge that he is dancing with the angels, walking the streets of gold and praising our Lord and Savior. You are all in our prayers.

My heart is breaking for all of you!!  Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  We have great memories of your loving and courageous family.  May God watch over you and give your family peace.

Vernon,Jo, and Julie,
My deepest sympathy is extended to your family upon the passing of Eric.

Eric was a man of strength and courage.

I know he is walking proudly in Heaven because of  his loving family.

You are in my prayers.

I was saddened this morning to hear of Eric's passing.  I can still see him walking across that stage receiving his high school diploma.  One of the most courageous, inspiring, and memorable things I've ever seen. May he find comfort and peace walking with the angels in heaven.

Eric, you lived a difficult life with style and grace and were an inspiration to all of us.  You will be missed, but now it is your time for rest and peace.  My sympathy and prayers to the Locke family as you keep memories of a precious son close to you.

We were saddened to hear that Eric's life on Earth has ended and know you feel comforted that he is with our Heavenly Father. We admired his courage so much, and his cheerful outlook and personality warmed those around him. You are all in our prayers, and we'll be thinkingof you in the weeks ahead as you try to find a new "normal" in your lives. May God bless you and comfort you.

Jo, Vern, Julie and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Eric's passing. He fought a long hard battle and is an inspiration to all who met him.  I know he is finally at peace and will be watching over you all, especially Jacob.  We love you!

David and Cheri Howry and family

Julie and family. I recall so many wonderful memories of you and Eric being with Laurie and our family. My heart goes out to you all and may God bless you! He has good company now and is up there with Laurie!!!

Our sympathy goes out to your family. May you know no more sorrow.
May you rest in peace.
Joan & Alan Weiskott (Ted Wicks in-laws)

Sending our love and prayers and thinking of all of you.  Marilyn and the Bidner cousins

Pat called me today to tell me of Eric's passing. What a handsome young man your Eric was.  Please accept our sincere sympathy.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  Norma Griffin and family

Our hearts go out to you all. Please know that we love you all and our prayers are with you. Uncle Leonard Lock, Aunt Norma Willy, Steve and Bryan Willy, Brandi Bryan, Richard & Mary Willy

Our most heartfelt love goes out to each of you just now.  All of we cousins send you our hugs.  Pat, for your cousins.

OBITUARIO

Eric A. Lock

18 septiembre, 1965 – 14 febrero, 2010

West Resthaven Funeral Home

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