Harold A. Locke

Harold A. Locke, affectionately known as "Harry" to many of his friends, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy touched by bravery, devotion, and an enduring zest for life. Born on April 10, 1948, in Vincennes, IN, he grew up on a small farm south of Palestine, IL. It was there, amidst the family dinners and home-cooked meals, that Harold's character began to take shape, a character that would later inspire all who knew him. His journey eventually led him to Oak Lawn, IL, where he met the girl who would become his soulmate, Jeanne Seabaugh.

In 1966, Harold graduated from high school and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, answering the call to serve his country during the Vietnam War. His time in Vietnam found him stationed in some of the most challenging areas of the war, including the Quang Tri province and the Da Nang air base. He served as a military policeman before he and his buddy, Doc, volunteered for combat duty to supplement a depleted Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, also known as "The Walking Dead" due to their high casualty rate. Harold faced intense and frequent combat before getting wounded during the Tet Offensive in January 1968, which earned him a Purple Heart in addition to a Presidential Unit Citation and numerous other well-earned decorations. Despite the hardships and sacrifice, he maintained a strong sense of duty and camaraderie, qualities that defined his service and left an indelible mark on his character.

After being honorably discharged in 1969, Harold returned to Illinois, where he began the next chapter of his life. He married Jeanne on November 15, 1969, and the couple soon moved back to his hometown of Robinson, where they raised a family and where Harold worked for over three decades at the Marathon oil refinery. His tenure there was not just a job but a means to build a life of stability for his wife and children, Bob and Brenda. He provided his family with innumerable cherished memories by taking them to destinations like Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, and Disney World. In later years, he and Jeanne continued their travels through guided tours, experiencing firsthand the beauty of places like Mackinac Island and Canada.

Needless to say, Harold's retirement was not one of idleness but of continued adventure and enjoyment. He bought some property on the outskirts of town and built a house he would call "home" for the rest of his life. Here, he kept a garden, the produce of which was generously shared with friends, neighbors, and his church family at Pearl Chapel, a community of believers near and dear to his heart. He was also an active member of the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, leading its Honor Guard to ensure that fellow veterans received the funeral honors they deserved. Though he enjoyed giving grief to his non-Marine comrades, he was proud to be associated with others who, like him, were willing to lay down their lives for the sake of liberty and justice for all.

As an avid reader, Harold frequented the library to immerse himself in the worlds of murder mysteries, history, and Westerns. His passion for books was matched by his love for the outdoors, be that going out for an evening hunt or simply watching the sunset from the quiet tranquility of his front porch. However, "quiet" and "tranquil" would not accurately describe the Locke home on the evening his beloved Chicago Cubs finally won the World Series. For such a long-awaited, once-in-a-lifetime event, an ecstatic Harold decided the best way to celebrate was to take his gun outside and fire a victory shot for all to hear!

Though it could be said that he was a character, it must be said that he was a man of character. His hard-earned wisdom, shared in moments of quiet reflection or over a game of chess, was profound, and his imparted lessons were of tremendous value because they came from someone who lived a life worth emulating. Harold Locke's legacy is one of devotion - to his country, his family, and his values. He was a man of humor and heart who left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though the loss of such a man is great, we take heart in knowing that Harold fought the good fight, he finished the race, and he kept the faith. Well done, old Marine, we'll see you soon. Semper Fi.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jeanne Locke (Robinson, IL); by his children, Bob & Dana Locke (Carmel, IN) and Brenda & Jason Sutfin (Robinson, IL); by his grandchildren, Garrett Locke (Carmel, IN), Jordan & Jake Dietz (Noblesville, IN), Mallory Sutfin (Vail, CO), Macy Sutfin (Lexington, KY), Isabelle Sutfin (Robinson, IL); by one great-grandchild eagerly anticipated in August; by his sister, Lori Burgess (Springfield, TN); as well as many extended family members that were each special to him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Robert Locke & Maxine (Highsmith) Locke, and by his parents-in-law, Louis & Edna Seabaugh.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22nd, at Pearl Chapel Church. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the church with Pastor Fred White officiating. For those unable to attend, a recording of this service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Memorials may be made to "Pearl Chapel Church", with envelopes available at the church. Burial will be in the Pearl Chapel Cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.