Ace James Lockwood

Ace James Lockwood was born on July 20, 1938, in Elbow Woods, N.D., to Belva Lockwood Vallie. Ace passed peacefully in his sleep on July 2, 2016.

Ace is preceded in death by his mother Belva, stepfather Charles Vallie Sr.; his brothers Leland Lockwood and Charles Vallie Jr.; first wife, Clara Littlewhirlwind; second wife, Myrtle Belcourt. He is survived by his children Kim (Kenny) Nicholson, Eric (Iva) Lockwood, Larry Lockwood, Cletis (Kerry) Lockwood, Donnie (Jolene) Belcourt, Christina Belcourt, and Tierra (Sylvester) Davis; his sister Kathy Vallie; 23 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Ace moved to Billings as a child and lived in Billings for several years and moved to Tacoma in 1989, where he resided until his death.

Ace was described as ornery but also kind, caring, and fun-loving. In his younger days, Ace was known as the "toughest guy on the south side" of Billings. Ace loved to tease and loved to laugh. Besides raising his kids, he was a surrogate father for his nieces, nephews, and several others who were friends with his kids. Ace was a big man with a big heart and he loved big cars and big dogs. He was the true eternal optimist. He enjoyed life to its fullest and never let things get him down.

In his later years, Ace was confined to a wheel chair as a result of various medical conditions. Although Ace will be sorely missed by his family and friends they also celebrate the fact that he has been set free.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m., July 15, at the Shrine Auditorium, 1125 Broadwater Avenue. A memorial service and scattering of ashes will be Sunday July 17, in New Town, N.D. Condolences may be made online at www.mountainviewtacoma.com.