John F. Lockhart, 61, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2019 at home surrounded by his loving family and close friends. He was born July 24, 1957 in Lancaster, California, the son of Don and Paraskevi “Vivie” (Sarris) Lockhart. He married Alisha Singer on December 29, 2000 and she survives.
John faithfully served his Country in the United States Air Force. For twenty-five years he was employed at Kieffer Lumber Company. He began his Civil Service career with the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department and the West Salem Police Department as Chief of Police. On March 10, 1997 John joined the Mount Carmel Police Department where he remained for twenty-two years until his recent retirement. During his years with MCPD, John worked as a Patrol Officer and was the Sergeant K-9 handler before becoming Chief of Police on March 4, 2013. He was a hard worker who was well respected by his peers and the local community. He treated all people fairly and evenly. John had a love for history. He also had a great sense of humor that gave his family and friends many memories to cherish. In his spare time, John enjoyed fishing and turkey hunting. John loved his whole family dearly. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart and they were what kept him going. John will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Alisha; sons, Alex (Sara) Lockhart and Ian Lockhart; daughters, Kaleigh Singer, Marissa Lockhart and Emmaleigh Singer; brother, Fred Lockhart; sisters, Laura Leathers and Leslie (Noal) Williams; grandson, Rayden Lockhart; granddaughters, Holly Paschke, Lainie Paschke and Carly Robinson and several nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Donna Aroujo; brothers, Ron and Tom Lockhart.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, April 26, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Per John’s wishes, no formal services will be held.
Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to Wabash General Hospital’s Oncology Department or the Shop With a Cop Program. Envelopes will be at the Funeral Home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view John’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Lockhart family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
