Johnnie Arthur Locken, a true cowboy at heart, passed away at the age of 91. Born in 1931 to John and Pauline (Buee) Locken, he was the third of fourteen children and was raised on the family farm northeast of New Town, ND.

From a young age, Johnnie embraced the value of hard work, spending his early years assisting his father and local farmers. In 1953, he answered the call of duty and was drafted into the Army, where he served with honor in the Korean War. He was discharged in 1955, having displayed courage and dedication to his country.

On March 11th, 1958, Johnnie married Ione Woessner in Minot, ND. Their union was blessed with four sons: Skip, Mark, David, and Kent. They moved to Medford, Oregon in the 1970s, where Johnnie worked at a plywood mill to provide for his family. Johnnie's heart would swell with pride as he watched his boys playing baseball, sharing in stories of their achievements that would be cherished for years to come. Even in his later years, while cheering for his beloved Minnesota Twins, he would fondly recollect those precious moments spent at the ball field with his boys.

Johnnie returned to the Belden/Stanley area in 1992, seeking the tranquility and unhurried pace that reminded him of his roots. He relished moments spent with animals, especially horses, and could often be found tinkering on his tractor, or lending a helping hand to neighbors and family whenever the need arose. One of Johnnie's greatest sources of joy stemmed from the profound role he held as a grandfather. His unconditional love extended to his four granddaughters, who were fortunate to grow up and reside near him throughout their lives. However, his affection and care knew no bounds, as he maintained a connection with his grandchildren, Kent and Rachel, residing in Alaska. Despite the distance, he dedicated numerous hours over the years to meaningful conversations with them over the phone. In 2009, he made the trip to Alaska to visit them and made many lasting memories. His role as a grandfather encompassed the love and devotion, he showered upon all his grandchildren, near or far, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

A man of humble pleasures, Johnnie appreciated the simple things in life. Whether it was riding a good horse, particularly his cherished companion Frosty, enjoying the company of dear friends, having a hamburger topped with a big old raw onion, reading a western book, doing leatherwork, or spending quality time with his family, he found contentment in life's little blessings. A gentle, kind, and caring soul, Johnnie's love knew no bounds. Even at the age of 90, he remained ever playful, readily joining his great-grandchildren on the floor to play. His infectious spirit and unwavering devotion touched the lives of all who knew him.

Johnnie Arthur Locken will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his unassuming nature, generous heart, and his profound love for family. May his legacy continue to guide and inspire us all.

Johnnie is survived by his sons, Skip (Dawn) Locken, David (Nancy) Locken; brothers, Norman, Paul, Lyle, Daryl (Pam); sisters, June Dokken, Sharon Wasicek, Betty (Rusty) Deserly; grandchildren; Shayna (Jared) Rognlien, Jenna (Vernon) Snyder, Kyli (Drew) Drosdal, Kori (Ty) Taylor, Kent Locken, Dakota Stammen, Dustin Stammen, & Dylan (Jaycey) Stammen, and many well-loved great-grandchildren.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents; John and Pauline Locken; wife, Ione Locken; sons, Mark and Kent Locken; granddaughter, Rachel Block; brothers, Lenard and Jim; sisters, Laura, Clara, Ella, and Norma.