William Edward Locke

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits William Edward Locke who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Bill was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with William knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

Bill was born on December 15, 1944 at Toronto Western Hospital. His parents were William (James) and (Laura) Mildred Locke. Bill was raised in Toronto. Even as a youngster, Bill learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

Bill's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Bill enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Bill took part in Hockey (open air) and Football. He was involved in a Salvation Army Band. In his spare time he liked sports. Bill memorable achievements included Soloist in Salvation Army Band (Coronet).

In school, Bill was as far away from being a model student as one could possibly imagine! He would eagerly complete his homework, so that he could play sports. A logical and focused thinker, Bill was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or coaches were self-imposed. Bill’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers, sports teams and championships.

Bill’s practical work ethic carried over into his college years. He would tackle an assignment and work through it before moving onto the next project. Bill’s orderly nature gave way to establishing personal study habits and procedures that not only helped him stay on track but often put him ahead of schedule. When Bill saw the need or benefit, he would willingly take on the extra assignment or even attend extra classes in order to learn more and become a better student. He earned his Degree at Ryerson Polytechnic Institute.

An objective and conscientious individual, Bill reveled in the security of his family. On June 11, 1988 Bill exchanged wedding vows with Eleanor Frances Brown at the Zion Christian Reform Church of Oshawa Ontario. One of Bill’s most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and his unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for his family and friends.

Father to Michelle (Michael) Brown and Brian (Olivia) Locke.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, William was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Bill was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Bill upheld his standards. His primary occupation was President Martin Canada Inc. And President and owner of Whitlock Marketing. Bill was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”

Bill approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were boating, fishing, woodworking and golf. Bill was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Bill to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. Recreational sports included touch football, senior men's hockey. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were hockey, fishing etc.

Being generous with his time and energy, Bill liked to belong to a variety of groups and organizations. He was a vocal leader who enjoyed being a part of things. His desire to uphold traditions and his ability to take charge of any type of project made him a tremendous asset. Throughout his later years, Bill was an active member of the Masons, Church Stewardship, and hockey coach of Whitby Minor Hockey.

Faith was important to Bill. For that reason he held deep spiritual beliefs that he was willing to share. He was a lifelong member of the Masons, Salvation Army.

When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Bill used his scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go. That also meant that he made certain no single person was overworked in putting the trip together. Bill had a knack for making sure that everyone who was involved had their specific tasks and that those tasks were completed. Favorite vacations included boating holidays.

Bill was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Bill’s favorites was loved his 2 dachshunds and 2 Maltese "Children". They were Lifelong best friends. His family was rounded out by his Brandy the cat (24 years old).

When Bill’s retirement finally arrived in tried to retire and hated it. So returned to mentoring and teaching business leadership skills, he was well prepared. He used his critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to. In many ways, Bill loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, attend functions and group outings, and tackle new interesting activities.

Bill passed away on January 17, 2016 at home in Courtice. He is survived by his loving wife and soul mate Ellie. A Celebration of Life was held at Courtice Funeral Chapel on January 27, 2016. Bill was laid to rest in Mount Lawn Memorial Gardens, Whitby.

All who knew him would agree that Bill was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Bill Locke did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person.

* * * * * * * * * *

(Former President of Martin Guitars of Canada Ltd.)

Bill passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife Ellie by his side on Sunday, January 17th, 2016, at the age of 71 years. Father to Brian Locke and Michelle Brown. Grandfather to 5 grandchildren. Will be remembered by his extended family and friends in the music industry. Special thank you to the wonderful home care providers, Kelly, Lori and Susan and long time dear friend Sharon Bradamore. Visitation will be held at Courtice Funeral Chapel 1587 Highway 2, Courtice, (905-432-8484) on Wednesday, January 27th, from 1:00 pm until time of Celebration of Life service in the chapel at 2:00 pm. Donations may be made in memory of Bill to Team Chelsea or the Salvation Army. Online condolences may be made at www.courticefuneralchapel.com