Earl "Sonny" W. Locke

Earl "Sonny" W. Locke, 89, of Mansfield passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at the The James at OSU Wexner Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Bunker Hill, Ohio on November 19, 1928. Sonny was the son of Harold and Leona (Rader) Locke.

Affectionately referred to as "Papa" by his grandchildren and many of their friends. Family was very important to Sonny and he valued the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. He was actively involved with his family especially his grandchildren and their activities. He was involved with sports programs and activities at Madison and Lexington Schools. Sonny was a good friend to many, including all of his Amish friends. He had a caring heart and would do anything for anyone. Sonny enjoyed painting horseshoes and giving them away for good luck. He would spend hours in his yard making sure that it look pristine as he took great pride in his yard.

Sonny is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joy J. (Campbell) Locke; his children, Melissa (Chris) Nedelkos, Timothy (Cindy) Locke and Kevin (Marla) Locke; grandchildren, Christopher (Tabatha) Nedelkos, Alyssa Nedelkos (Brendan Gibbons), Erin (Jay) Jones, Addison, Parker, Spencer and Makenna Locke; great-grandchildren, Evee and Ari Jones, and excitingly awaiting the arrival of another little one; and a niece, Linda Shambre. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Eddie Locke; and sister, Naoma Weaver.

The family will welcome guests from 2-5pm on Sunday, December 10, 2017 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington Springmill Road. Funeral service will be held at 1pm on Monday, December 11, 2017 at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Sonny's life to the Lexington Booster Club, 103 Clever Lane Lexington, OH 44904 or The James at OSU Wexner Medical Center, 300 West 10th Avenue Columbus, OH 43210.