Calvin P. Lockwood

Calvin Preston Lockwood, known to friends and family as Cal, passed away on March 12, 2025, at the age of 83. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose kindness, humor, and dedication left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born on February 4, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Cal was the only child of Dolores Lockwood, who raised him as a single mother. He grew up surrounded by close-knit cousins, who affectionately called him Butch or Butchie in his childhood.
After graduating high school, Cal attended Boston College for a year before transferring to St. Peter's College in Jersey City. While in college, he joined ROTC and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army after graduation. In 1965, Cal married Elizabeth "Betty" Walsh, his college sweetheart. The couple celebrated 60 years of marriage just weeks before his passing.
Cal's life was marked by service and sacrifice. In October 1965, shortly after his marriage, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he served for a year in intense jungle combat. Cal's bravery and selflessness earned him the Bronze Star with a "V" for Valor, recognizing his heroic actions while protecting a wounded radioman under fire. He often reflected on his time in Vietnam with humor and a sense of camaraderie that defined his character
Following his return from Vietnam, Cal moved his young family from Brooklyn to Bardonia, Rockland County, in 1971. He began a successful career in advertising, first as a copywriter and later as an account executive at Ogilvie & Mather. After 20 years at the firm, he went on to open his own business, Lockwood & Waldman Promotions, where he continued to work until his retirement.
Cal was a devoted father to his four children: Elizabeth "Liz" Lockwood, Paul Lockwood (Elise Anderson), John Lockwood (Meg Lyons Lockwood), and Jessica Lockwood Dempsey (Mike Dempsey). He was also a beloved grandfather, known as "Papa" to his six grandchildren: Kicky, Sebastian, Chloe, Leo, Cooper, and Sawyer. A lifelong believer in the importance of family, Cal was always present-whether coaching Little League, leading Cub Scouts, or organizing family vacations.
His love of humor was legendary, and he never hesitated to share a joke-even if it was one he had told countless times before. Cal's quick wit and playful spirit brought joy to all who knew him, and he found great delight in making his grandchildren laugh.
Cal is survived by his wife, Betty, his children, and his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched, his stories, and the love he gave so freely.
A private service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjud.org) or to a charity of choice in Cal's honor. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Calvin, please visit our floral store.