Robert Locke

OXFORD – Robert F. Locke, 81, died Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence in Worcester, after a brief illness.  He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Janet M. (Obraitis) Locke of Oxford; two daughters, Donna M. Rousseau and her husband Brian of Dudley, and Denise L. Hoyt and her husband Christopher of Oxford; four grandchildren, Heidi, Paige, Matthew, and Abigail; nephews and nieces.  He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Locke; and a brother, Peter Locke.  He was born in Worcester, son of the late Clifton and Kathryn (Healy) Locke, and lived in Worcester before moving to Oxford 55 years ago.  He graduated from North High School in Worcester and UMass-Amherst Stockbridge School of Agriculture.  He enlisted in the Army National Guard 181st Infantry Division.

Bob worked for the Clark University Grounds Department in Worcester, retiring in 2003.  Previously, he worked at the Worcester Science Center (currently the Ecotarium).  He enjoyed playing 45’s on his Wurlitzer Jukebox, watching the Bruins and the Patriots, puzzles during the winter, working in his yard and gardening.  He took great pride in his yard and had the greenest lawn in the neighborhood.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 27, 2023, at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford.  Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.  Calling hours are Thursday, January 26, 2023, from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home.  In lieu flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rose Monahan Hospice Residence, 10 Judith Rd., Worcester, MA 01602.