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Dax Locke Obituary
WASHINGTON - Dax Ryan Locke, 2, of Washington passed away after an 18-month battle with acute myeloid leukemia at 2:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Born June 26, 2007, at Methodist Hospital in Peoria, Ill., he was the only son of Austin and Julie Lemkemann Locke. They survive, as well as many other family members who loved him dearly.
Dax, who was a very happy little boy even in his illness, spent his first year of life at home. The remainder of his life was spent at the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis and the OSF affiliate in Peoria, where he was loved and cared for by the nurses, doctors and other staff.
Austin and Julie wish to express their gratitude to all of those that have supported and cared for Dax, and are thankful for your kindness and prayers during his illness.
A public visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010, at Crossroads United Methodist Church in Washington. Celebration of life services will be open only to close friends and family.
Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family asks that no flowers be sent but would ask that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude's in honor of Dax. To donate, visit the caringbridge link below. A live public webcast of Dax's service will be available online at http://webcasts.lifetributes.com/110190.
You may also visit his Caring Bridge site at www.caringbridge.org/visit/daxlocke.
Condolences may also be made to the family online at www.deitersfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dax Locke
Bernice Lupo
December 14, 2024
I remember keeping up with Dax`s story when he was at Saint Judes. I had a friend whose daughter needed a liver transplant. She was an infant. I also remember reading the heartbreaking memo that stated that at passed away. My heart just broke. I can´t even imagine as parents what you went through. The only consolation I can give you is that he was in Jesus´s arms when he passed away and he´s an angel now watching over you because he knows you loved him and you did everything in your power to help him. I know you will never forget a part of your heart will probably never heal But I send you prayers to give you strength. God bless you.
Suzette White
October 28, 2024
I just watched the movie The Heart of Christmas. I have 3 grown children and I have 9 grandchildren, one is in Heaven. This movie-The story of Dax touched my heart!! I do not know how parents & families get through the tragedy of losing a child. I can only say this movie needs to be watched by everyone!! To remind us tomorrow is not promised. Although it was a tragedy the loss of Dax, his memory carries on with a beautiful message. My husband and I make monthly donations to St Jude´s as these parents, children and families need our support. One day may there be a cure for leukemia and all illnesses.
Raymond Crewz
November 26, 2023
This movie needs to b watched by all every Christmas it is a reminder of what u have an what u can lose family is everything and everyone needs to remember that I still pray for you dax and for Julie
Cheryl
July 22, 2023
A guy just walked by me with Dax's name on his T-shirt which prompted me to re-read his obit. I remember putting up Christmas lights in his honor. Praying his family and his community are thriving and know how many lives he touched
Waunda Anderson
December 6, 2022
Thank you for sharing your beautiful awesome story. I was searching for a Christmas Story on my televisions I came a cross The Heart of Christmas. I had no idea that I was about to see. As I continued to watch, I realized that it was a family, friends and love one. How with everything going on in our lives we spent little time with each other. How most times we fell to realize, that every moment we had from each other is a timeless gift from God. Again thank you for a beautiful story.
God Bless you and your family
James iezzi
November 16, 2022
Sad and a great Christmas not knowing it could be your last one here on earth knowing he's in heaven with our lord we will see him again r.i.p dax
Debbie Hilton
November 2, 2022
I pray for this family and just watched Heart of Christmas which I have year he´d in a long time! It still brings tears to your eyes! Hold your family tight never know when it could be your last hug!
Kimberly Evans
October 18, 2022
I just watched The Heart of Christmas and was deeply moved to tears as I watched this sweet little angel and his family face cancer. Very inspiring story. May God continue to watch over you.
Shelby
December 5, 2021
I just finished watching the movie and it gave me the chills and I started crying. Dax´s you will be missed and we all love you.
Nicki Boyle
December 3, 2021
I also just finished watching this movie on Roku! What a heartfelt touching story to bring out the best in people May his memories live on and be close with you at all times. What great family you made at the hospital. You are so blessed
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Valerie
November 18, 2021
I watched Dax´s story tonight with family for the first time. My Mom has cancer and, as a single Mom, it´s easy to get caught up in daily tasks and forget that loving the ones around us is the most important. I needed that reminder today as I watched with my Mom, stepdad, and two year old. These moments are precious. Thank you to Daxs family for sharing his story and may God bless you and keep you in Jesus name.
Becca Hensley
November 13, 2021
We serve an almighty GOD! I don´t know Dax or the family personally but I do know you all have an inspiring little man. His story has touched my heart and I´m truly looking at life a bit differently, with my family. I pray your family still feels the love being sent your way and you continue to make a difference. GOD bless you all.
Yamecha Gunn
January 30, 2021
God be the glory. I just watched this story on Roku. What an amazing beautiful little boy. I never met Dax or his family. But this story left an imprint on my life. Praying for greater days for each of us.
Aaliyah Williams
December 26, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
vanshika rao
March 19, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Megan Gallop
December 3, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
BRANDY BELCHER
January 25, 2010
DAX YOU TOUCHED SO MANY LIVES IN THE SHORT TIME YOU WERE WITH US. YOU WILL FOREVER BE LOVED AND MISSED BY MANY. GOD COULDN'T HELP FIND A CURE, SO HE CHOSE A WONDERFUL ANGEL TO JOIN HIM IN HEAVEN. WE KNOW THAT YOU ARE UP THERE WATCHING OVER EVERYONE. R.I.P. SWEET ANGEL BOY, I WILL FOREVER LOVE YOU.
ann wilson
January 14, 2010
No one's words can take away the pain that you as Dax's paretns are feeling. But I wanted to let you that my family has been praying for both of you. Ever since we heard Dax's story we have had Dax and St.Jude in our thoughts and prayers. From everything I have read and heard Dax was a brave amazing little boy that even thou his time on earth was short God blessed him with two loving caring parents who was willing to share Dax's story with the world to help the children of St. Jude. Dax seemed to have a wonderful smile and I am sure that is because he had the two of you. We will always remember Dax every year when we put up our Christmas lights and our promise to you is we will always remember St.Jude every year with a contribution in honor of Dax.
Kristi Lindstrom
January 11, 2010
I just found out about Dax's death. I'm soooo sorry for your loss. My oldest son is a 7th grader at LeRoy Jr/Sr High and they decorated their classroom and completed the Math-a-thon for Dax. Thank you for sharing his story and inspiring so may people.
Trisia Worrick
January 10, 2010
God seen you getting tired, A cure was not ment to be, So he put his arms around you and whispered "Come to Me" With tearful eyes, We watched you pass away, Although you were loved so dearly, we could not make you stay, A golden heart stopped beating, A beautiful boy finally at reast, God has broken our heart to prove to us.. That he only takes the best.
When someone you love becomes a memory the memory becomes a treasure.
I wanted to let you know that I am so sorry for your loss, Ever since I heard about Dax he has been in my prayers, My family has too went through the pain of losing a child to cancer and We Support St. Jude 100%. I truely hope that you can raise the money to run St. Jude for a day. It is well worth evey dollar. Thank you for sharing Dax with the world and inspiring so many people.
marsha edlemon
January 7, 2010
thank you so much for sharing your precious little boy. dax stole my heart.
Greg & Kris Martin
January 5, 2010
We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts ache for you.Dax has touched our lives in a way we will never forget. Even though we didn't know him personally we felt like we did and we looked forward to your emails. Thank you so much for sharing Dax with us. Our lives are better because you shared your lives with us. Know that you are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Prayerfully,
Greg & Kris Martin
January 5, 2010
Sleep in peace, wonderful boy!
Sara Lindemann
January 5, 2010
My heart aches for your family. I cannot put into words the admiration I have for your strength. Your son has touched so many lives. I am so thankful that you shared your precious moments of Dax with us! May your little angel rest in peace. God Bless you both ~
MARILYN EL-DUBBEH
January 4, 2010
AS THE STORY GOES,I'M SURE DAX HAD HIS WINGS BEFORE THE BELLS RANG. THERE ARE NO WORDS THAT CAN TELL YOU THE SORROW THAT IS FELT BY ALL THOSE THAT HAVE BEEN TOUCHED BY DAX AND HIS STORY. HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL. I HOPE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO FIND THE INNER PEACE TO CARRY ON. IN THE DAYS TO COME,KNOW GOD LET YOU SHARE THIS BRAVE LITTLE ANGLE AND FOR THAT, I THANK-YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. I WILL PRAY FOR YOU BOTH.
MARILYN EL-DUBBEH
a baranovich
January 4, 2010
When you leave an imprint on the lives you touched while you were here, you are never really gone! Dax touched so many hearts, he'll be remembered always. God bless his family.
January 4, 2010
What a special angel. I hope that you can take some comfort in knowing that God chose you to watch over and protect precious Dax during his time on this earth.
January 4, 2010
May you both find peace in this time of sorrow. I will continue to pray for your family.
Dawn
January 4, 2010
My heart is so heavy for your family. My sincere condolences go out to you guys! I have prayed daily for your son since i first heard about your family in October. May God Bless you and keep you close to Him as i am sure your days ahead will not be easy. Thank you so much for sharing Dax's story with the world-- we all fell in love with him! He touched so many lives! ~ And that sweet baby never even knew it. You both will continue to be in my prayers!
Kymberly Allen
January 4, 2010
I can't wait to shake Dax's hand in heaven some day. He truly inspired me to live each day to the fullest! Thank you Dax and God bless your amazing parents!
January 4, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Your little angel touched so many lives in his short time here, more than you'll ever know. God bless Dax, and all of those who love him.
Gina Stickelmaier
January 3, 2010
Much love and prayers for you and your families during this time.
Sarah Miller
January 3, 2010
Not a day has gone by since I have heard about Dax that I haven't thought of him. I know that you both will have rough days where you will feel lost, but on those days keep your chin up. Remember that your little angel has touched so many lives. Its made many of us take a step back and realize that there is more to life. You have made us all aware of the struggles that many families face, and the battle that so many children are put up against. Julie, I look to you with such admiration when I think of all you have done to make Dax's life so memorable. You are truly an amazing mother. I hope that you and Austin find peace and comfort knowing that Dax's life and message will be carried on thanks to you being the best parents you could be. Life is overwhelming and there will always be hard days, and on those days cherish your wonderful memories of your sweet angel Dax.
Leslie Family
January 3, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Diane Ogg
January 3, 2010
Austin & Julie,
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Thank you for sharing Dax with us...we have learned so much from his short time here. I will cherish every moment and never look at Christmas lights without remembering Dax. God bless you and comfort you during this time of pain and sorrow. Please know that there are a lot of people praying for you and your family.
Cassie Divert
January 3, 2010
Dear Locke Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you through this tough time. I tear up thinking about what all Dax and your family have been through, i to battle a illiness {cystic fibrosis}, i also have a 22 month old son witch was a miracle so i know its not easy what your family have been through! I wanted to thank you for sharing Dax and his story with the world, you have changed and touched so many ppls lives. god bless you!
Sincerely,
Cassie Divert
Debbie Horner
January 3, 2010
Julie and Austin, no words can express how sorry we are. Dax has had such an impact on our lives. He is the true meaning of strength and determination. We love you and we are sorry we can't be there, but you are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Lisa Potter
January 3, 2010
Cherish the memories.
Kara Marino
January 3, 2010
Dear Locke Family,
I hope you can find comfort in knowing how many lives you have impacted. Not only have you three changed the way people look at their families, but also brought new light to the importance of St. Judes. May Dax's bright light continue to shine in us all. You will continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Kara Marino and Family
jamie long
January 2, 2010
Dear Locke Family, You have our heartfelt sympathy at this time. I know no words can take away your pain or ease your suffering, so I won't try--just know that there are many out there thinking and praying for you and have been all along.
Sincerely,
Jamie Long & Family
Jennifer
January 2, 2010
For only being in this world for 2 years, Dax left more of an impression than I can ever dream to. I will use him as an example in how I live my life. Thank you for sharing him with us!
Shannon Baldock
January 2, 2010
Dear Julie and Austin, My heart goes out to you and your family. Dax was a beautiful little boy and he fought so hard to stay with you. I hope it comforts you to know how many people loved him even those of us who never had the honor of meeting him. Thank you for sharing his journey with all of us... God Bless Rest In Peace beautiful Dax. You changed so many lives in your short time here and I thank you for changing mine. God Bless you, you beautiful angel.
Kacey
January 2, 2010
No words can express how sorry we all are for your loss. While he was taken far too soon, his memory will last forever.
Marvin and Carrie Long
January 2, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Dax is a beautiful dancing angel. He touched so many lives and will continue to. Bless You All!
crystal
January 2, 2010
Thoughts and prayers for your family. Dax is with God now with no more pain dancing with the angels.
January 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God wrap his loving arms around you and your family and give you peace.
Renee Andrews and Family,Peoria, IL
Jeanette Jeffcott
January 1, 2010
Julie & Austin, and family,
What words can make you ever feel better for loosing such an incredible little guy? I am sorry -- so sorry -- for your loss. I had been following Dax online from Florida for the last couple of months. I feel like I grew to know (and love) him so much. Not a day or hour would go by without thinking about him and how he was doing. Of course, praying and pleading with God every night that things would change for the better. God has greater plans than any of us can possibly comprehend. Dax is without pain now and can do whatever he wants. His earthbound body is no longer a prison for his vibrant soul. He has inspired so many people's lives for the better. Many good things will be done because of him and your sharing with us. God bless your family and God bless Dax. He will never be forgotten. Many, many thanks to all the wonderful doctors and nurses for their care of Dax and your family. ((Hugs))
SUSAN GRZANICH
January 1, 2010
I AM SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT DAX HE SEMMED TO BE VERY HAPPY AND VERY LOVED , JUST REMEMBER HE IS AN ANGEL IN HEAVEN NOW ,AND WILL ALWAYS BE A REMEBERED ANGEL ON EARTH.
January 1, 2010
Lesson learned well: cherish every moment. So very, very sorry for your loss.
Donna
January 1, 2010
Our families thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time. Dax was one SPECIAL boy who touched MANY lives across this world. He taught us to "Cherish Every Moment" and to LOVE one another & to help where we can. Our donation to St. Judes will be made in Dax's name.
Debbie/Nicole/Ashley/Tyler/Mackenzie
January 1, 2010
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Amanda
January 1, 2010
What a amazing fight your little dax had! just think he's dancing in heaven with no pain! your family has taught me a lot over the last year, to CHERISH EVERY MOMENT! God bless the both of you and your families and i will remember Dax everyday!
Crystal Lattin
January 1, 2010
The Lattin family send their prayer to you and your family in your time of loss. Dax touched so many people.
Amanda
January 1, 2010
What a fighter you had! May he dance without pain! your family has taught me a lot over the last year,to take time with each other and CHERISH EVERY MOMENT!
Cheri/Lenny Melissant
January 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Vicki Campbell
January 1, 2010
Our sincere thoughts are with you at this difficult time.....God Bless you and your family and little angel.
The Campbell Family
East Peoria IL/ Tulsa Ok
January 1, 2010
Thank you for teaching us how to cherish every moment now cherish every memory. Dance every day Dax
Praying and thinking of you.
Anita Schultz
January 1, 2010
Prayers are with you at the sad loss of someone so special who touched so many. Dax's life has been turned over to God - know that he will be cared for and you will see him again some day. He truly was loved and changed a lot of lives for the better. May God's blessings continue to be with you both and your family.
Merna Gray
January 1, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
MHS
January 1, 2010
Thinking of you and praying for healing through this difficult and trying time. We all love you and Dax will be our shining star!
Bob Locke
January 1, 2010
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Tonya Martynowski
January 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. Dax touched the hearts of so many all across the world. God Bless You!
The Vicary's
January 1, 2010
Dear Austin and Julie,
My family's thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May you find the strength and comfort in God durig your coming days.
Warren & Dena Lybarger
January 1, 2010
sorry for your lost our prayers are with you
Chad & Monica Beltramea
January 1, 2010
Julie and Austin-
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dax was such a special little boy who was loved so very much. He has opened so many eyes around the world to what is truly important in life. And in my heart I know that Dax will never be forgotten. His memory will live on forever. Please lean on those who love you to make it through this journey.
Marvin Potter
January 1, 2010
All the members of the Wyoming Fire District,would like to share our condolence,with your family.....It's just amazing how 1 person can touch the hearts of so many,hang in their the memories will always be their!!!
~Julie
January 1, 2010
There are no words right now~ Dax has shown us all what life is really about. He has taught us all about slowing down and looking around for another minute or two- paying attention to what is really important.
I wish that you, my friends were not the ones having to deal with such a great loss. However, you are stepping forward with the pride that HE is YOUR SON- you were given the blessing from God to hold him in your care for two glorious years. Although, not nearly long enough- God entrusted you with one of his most precious angels. That is a GIFT from God!
Thank you Julie and Austin for sharing your sweet boy with the world and for making the world a better place to live in because of him.
Dax is truly a masterpiece from God and we were all a part of his journey.
Praying for you during these days, knowing he is right along side of you. I love you both.
One Day at a Time...
Jessica Doerr
January 1, 2010
We are sorry for the lose of such a wonderful little boy, who tought the world a huge leason in life..words cant explain how he touched our hearts. The straigth you and Austin share together is amazing! I will continue to keep you and Austin in my prayers at you time of need. Thank you for sharing you little boy with us.
Ruth Pickel
January 1, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Darold and Jennifer Gazza
January 1, 2010
We are so sorry for your loss. Dax has touched so many lives and inspired so many. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your family.
January 1, 2010
Julie/Austin. You are in my prayers and thoughts. So sorry..I have prayed for Dax since he was diagnosed with cancer. I also have cried many tears.
God Bless you and I know he is at Peace with our Lord and Savior.
Love to you all
the Toliver's from Washburn.
barb lester
January 1, 2010
Angels are sent to us from up above
to teach us how to live and teach us how to give.. Your little Dax was one of those angels,, He had an enormous
task to do here on earth, I thank you and your family for sharing Dax with
millions of people all over the world.
His inspiration will live on. May the
Lord be with you, and give you comfort.
kimmie christianson
January 1, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
cathy wolff
January 1, 2010
we are so sorry to hear of Dax's passing. there are no words that can comfort you at this time.
Dax will always be remembered when we decorate for the holidays.... i cried when i read about him and his wonderful family and friends. i purchased a bracelet and i will always cherish the moment. we will also be making a donation to ST. Jude in his honor. may God bless you and help you thru your time of need.
Gwen Balensiefen
January 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for sharing your little angel with all of us, thru the Christmas decorating and TV. For such a little boy he brought alot of people together.
Amanda and Eric Huser
January 1, 2010
Julie and Austin-We are sorry for your loss. Dax was a beautiful, child, and full of life. Thank you for sharing his journey with all. You are forever in our hearts and prayers. God Bless you. Cherish Every moment...
karen sronce
January 1, 2010
Dance sweet Dax. You are a beautiful Angel. I have learned to Cherish Every Moment. Thank you and your parents for teaching me that.
Melissa
January 1, 2010
What a fight he put up! I have to thank this little boy for showing all of us what is truly important in life.
Gil & Barb Engel
January 1, 2010
Your lives have touched the hearts of so many people in Illinois and literally around the world, due to all the prayers that went out. He may have only lived 2 years, but how he opened all our hearts is beyond words. May God keep his ever loving arms around you now, as He always does. Also, thank you for sharing your son with us all. God Bless You!!
Anna
January 1, 2010
God Bless you and your family. Dax was such a special little boy.
Michelle Longman
January 1, 2010
Julie and Austin,
Please know my family's thoughts are prayers are with you in this most difficult time in your lives. There are no words that I can offer that will ease your pain or lessen your sorrow.
I have become a better person and mother in light of your family's struggle with this awful cancer. I'd like to say that Dax is now 'Living in Peace' after his heroic battle with his cancer. Dax is now LIP as he can dance with all the other Angels and God. May He hold you near in His arms and walk along with Austin and You by His side and cradle Dax in his arms.
Yourselves and your son has changed many a people in our great world. I hope you both can find peace and comfort due time. I know I never want to walk even a foot in your shoes, but if the time came, I would follow your lead.
Thank you for sharing Dax with my family and the rest of the world. I now keep the pop tops off all sofa/beer cans for their use to help support the Ronald McDonald charity...
May 2010 bring you Peace and happiness knowing your precious little guy is not suffering any longer.
Prayers, Thoughts, and Love,
Chris and Michelle Longman,
And Children
Drew, Lexie, Isabella, & Samantha Longman
D Flynn
January 1, 2010
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Amanda Moore
January 1, 2010
Iam so sorry for your loss, Dax inspired me about life to be thankful for what I have. My children will think of you at the holidays, whenever we put are light up for Dax like this year. You are in my prayer at this time of sorrow. We will be making a donation to St. Jude in his honor.
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