Canton – Walter E. Locke, 87, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, November 16, 2013 at Canton Potsdam Hospital.  Arrangements are entrusted with the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop.

Walter was born on February 17, 1926 at the family home in Brasher Falls, son of the late Nelson Walter and Grace (Martin) Locke.  He received his education locally at District Schools and Brasher – Stockholm High School.  A veteran of World War II, he proudly served his country in the U. S. Navy on the USS Bremerton (CA-130).  On April 3, 1947 he married the love of his life, Laura I. Burnap at the Potsdam United Methodist Church.  They shared 59 years together as true companions and friends, until her passing on June 21, 2006.  Walter worked for many years on the family farm, Locke Dairy, until he went to work at General Motors in Massena.  He retired in 1983 after 25 years of loyal service.

He was a humorous and sharp-witted man, with a sentimental side for his family. These qualities were paired with his ever-present friendly smile and his ability to be a great conversationalist.  He cherished many trips around the country, especially a cruise through the Panama Canal and reunions with his fellow sailors.  He enjoyed old cars; spending many years at Lake Ozonia and recently, five winters at The Villages in Florida, meeting new friends.

Walter’s memory will be forever in the hearts of his children, Linda Hollis of Inverness, FL, Norma J. Locke of Potsdam, Lori A. Locke of Canton and Nancy L. and Robert  Huff of Monson, MA; one brother, Donald Locke of Brasher Falls; five grandchildren, Jamie Mulverhill of Inverness, FL, Benjamin Locke of Elmira, Lauralyn Hollis of Inverness, FL, Jillian Locke of Asahi, Japan, and Emily Huff of Monson, MA; two great-granddaughters, Katy Mulverhill of Spring Hill, FL and Liliana Hollis of Inverness, FL; many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Laura; their son, James C. Locke; one brother, Stanley Locke; four sisters, Frances Ramsdell, Wealthea  Solter, Maxidora “Maxine” Riggs, and Gladys Andrews.

Visitation will be at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, Tuesday from 4 - 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 - 11 a.m. with Walter’s Funeral Service and Celebration of Life to commence at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Brasher Falls.

Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Walter’s memory, please consider donations to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, Inc., 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676; Canton United Methodist Church, 41 Court Street, Canton, NY 13617; or Canton Rescue Squad, Inc., 77 Riverside Drive, Canton, NY 13617.

Memories and condolences can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com