Craig Martin Locke

Craig Martin Locke
Jan. 7, 1963 - Aug. 11, 2017
Resident of Watsonville
Craig Martin Locke died suddenly in Watsonville, California on August 11, 2017, at the age of 54. Craig was born January 7, 1963, to parents Ralph and Gretchen. He was the youngest of 3 boys and spent most of his young childhood living in Sacramento. His sophomore year of high school Craig moved to Aptos and attended Aptos High School, where he met many of his lifelong friends and excelled in baseball as a catcher.
In 1985, he married his first wife Risa (Sanchez) Locke and his daughter Emily was born in 1986. In his early 20's Craig learned construction and went on to become a general contractor. After moving to La Selva Beach with his family, Craig befriended Melvin Falcon, his mentor who taught him the art of cabinet making. Craig married Brenda (Watson) Locke in 2000. Craig dreamed of owning a large piece of property and in 2004, Craig and Brenda purchased 120 acres on the Big Sur Coast. Craig spent many years in Big Sur fulfilling his dream working on the property. In 2016 his home was burned in the Sobranes fire, after which he spent the remainder of his life reconnecting with his family in Watsonville.
Craig became a grandfather in January of 2017, with the birth of his grandson River Sampson. He was a proud grandpa and adored River from the day he was born. Craig enjoyed working with his hands and was a master woodworker. He also enjoyed ocean fishing with his friends. Craig had a competitive nature and succeeded at most everything he tried, be it skiing, baseball or golf.
Craig is survived by his daughter Emily Sampson of Watsonville, Emily's husband John Sampson of Watsonville, his grandson River Sampson of Watsonville, his brother Kevin Locke of Redmond, Washington, his mother Gretchen McCarthy of Lincoln, California, his father Ralph Locke and his step mother Lynn Locke of Green Valley, California. He was preceded in death by his brother Steven Locke, his step father Tom McCarthy, his dear friend Melvin Falcon and his beloved bloodhound Ruby.
His family and friends find comfort in knowing that Craig is at peace and will remember him for his sensitive and generous nature. A Memorial Service will be held for him Sunday, September 24th at the Padres Hall in Corralitos at 1 PM, everyone is welcome to attend. To share a memory or condolence with Craig's family please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com.


View the online memorial for Craig Martin Locke