Tribute

Christopher Michael Locke was born in Birkenhead, England on March 14, 1940.   The second eldest child of Brigid Campbell and Chris Locke was one of 7 siblings, 5 boys and 2 girls.  At this time England was at war so for safety reasons his mother, Joseph and Chris were evacuated to Dromintee, Northern Ireland.  His father was away in the army so he spent 6-7 years there and had many happy memories including making his 1^st Holy Communion there.  The war eventually came to an end and arriving back in England he attended St. Anne’s Catholic School where he excelled at distance running, practiced high jump over the clothes line and was thrilled to be named to the Birkenhead School boys football team.  He was an altar boy with his brothers and spent a few hours each day delivering fish.  At 13 he was accepted into the Birkenhead Technical College and attended there until 1956 when he earned an Electrical Apprenticeship.  His electrical trade took him on many adventures throughout the world with fond memories of friendships and experiences , but particularly his travels through all of Africa and especially South Africa.  Chris was a loving son and brother who was always treating his brothers and sisters and sending money home to his parents.  Eventually he ended up traveling to Vancouver, Canada in September 1965.   Chris was sent on a job up the coast to Powell River where he met his wife to be Miriam (Della Maestra) and they were married in 1969.  Focusing on raising their three children, Tina, Jamie and Chris, he gave up his traveling ways and became President of the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) in Vancouver.  He served for 25 years as President and a Founding Trustee and Administrator of the Pension and Benefit plan.  Chris retired at 75 after serving as a Director of the Medical Services Association of B.C. and Pacific Blue Cross for more than 23 years.  He was proud of his contribution to the Health and Benefits of the IBEW’s membership.  He enjoyed nature, arguing about politics and a fine glass of French wine.  He was preceded in death by his beloved brother Oliver in 2012, and his mum and dad.  He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Miriam; daughter Tina (Marcus); son Jamie (Michelle); son Chris; grandchildren, Madeline, Liam, Noah, Farah and Lucas; his sisters Brigid and Mary; his eldest brother Joseph, and younger brothers Michael and John.