James E Locke was born May 5, 1937 in Kansas City, KS to James Glen and Virginia Irene Roper Locke. His maternal grandparents, Steve and Sofia Roper migrated to Ellis Island, NY from Croatia in early 1900’s. James passed away early Tuesday, Jan 14th in peace.
As a child he attended Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and School, where he was baptized and received First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Living next door to the Church, he served Mass almost daily until he was 14 years old. After completing 8 years of grade school at Blessed Sacrament he attended Ward High School where he graduated in 1955.
His first job was with KC Star throwing papers, and then for 11 years starting at 18 years of age he worked for the Union Pacific Railroad.
James Locke 1st marriage was to Judy Beth Brown in 1959. They were together until 1980 during which time they had 3 children, Michael, Joy & Jeff.
During his marriage to Judy he was drafted into the Armed Forces of the United States and served from 1960-1962. After his enlistment he changed jobs and joined the KCK Police Department in 1969 and retired in 1996.
James married Mary Anne Anderson On September 17,1981 and remained married until his passing. During his marriage to Mary Anne they had 2 children Patrick and James. They enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, being entertained by their son’s school activities, which included serving mass and playing sports. They loved spending time with their grandchildren.
James was an avid fisherman, hunter, and sports fan! He loved his family and enjoyed watching and yelling (LOL) at his kids as they thrived in all their sporting activities. His desire was always to paint and work on cars, so enjoyed any extra free time he had working at Wagner’s Auto Body.
He is survived by his wife Mary Ann Locke, Five children: Michael Allen Locke, Joy Eileen Locke, Jeffrey Jay Locke, Patrick Joseph Locke spouse Esmeralda Locke, James Edward Locke II spouse Mallory Locke.
Surviving Brothers/Sisters - David Locke, Bob Locke, Theresa Cast and twin sisters Mary Painter and Margaret Malmberg. He was preceded in death by his parents, Brothers Stephen, Joseph, Frank and two infant sisters.
Surviving Grandchildren: Phoenix Nicole Locke, Elizabeth Nicole Locke, Christian Jacob Locke, Cruz Joseph Locke, Miley Jaxson Locke, Delaney Jamison Locke, Nevaeh Giselle Garcia, Paityn Avery Locke, Emmy Paige Locke and Landon James Locke.
