EUGENE THOMAS LOCKHART

On May 1st, 2020 the love of Arlene Lockhart’s life became an angel in heaven. Eugene Thomas Lockhart, 75, was born August 20, 1944, he was a twin, and Michael was born a few minutes later to Eugene and Eleanor Lockhart at San Francisco, California. He was raised in Northern California and graduated from Aragon High School in 1962.

The love story begins; Gene and Arlene were truly meant for each other. On September 1960, first day of high school they had an overabundance of students at Burlingame High School, half of the students from Aragon High School were to come to Arlene’s school while the Aragon was being built. As young teenagers, rushing down the halls to get to class, Gene sees Arlene and instantly their eyes met. Just like Gene always said, everything else stood still. Freshmen year was unbelievable; they were together until Aragon was built. They were both young, she was 14 and couldn't date, Gene was 16. After the separation, they didn't see each other, years later Gene was married, had a family and so did Arlene.

In 1987, Arlene went on a cruise and met this couple (Frank & Josephine) from San Mateo, Ca, instantly they became friends. Josephine also went to Aragon. Arlene asked if she knew Gene Lockhart, yes she did. Every year Arlene was invited to their open house Christmas party.  On December 12, 1992, the surprise of Arlene’s life, Josephine invited Gene. He knew she would be there but it was to be a surprise for her and it was. Instantly when Arlene walked in she was smiling at everyone, he knew her instantly after 32 years later by her smile. From that day on they were never separated. They lived together for 15 years, married on 8/8/08, the happiest day of their life, first dance "At Last" by Etta James. That's what you call a SOLE MATE.

Gene owned his own business for 50 years, very well known throughout Northern California as Gene Lockhart, The Muffler Man.  He loved his work, very dedicated making sure the exhaust systems would be perfect, better then factory. Lots of famous people would come to him from all over because they knew he was honest and just a great guy. Always there to help everyone that needed his help. When you became one of his friends you were a friend forever. He loved to tease; the smallest things would make him happy. He just was a GREAT GUY. He had such a beautiful, contagious smile and never showed his age. He treated Arlene like a queen always by my side.  Gene and Arlene moved to Libby 2015, this became their home, they couldn't believe how wonderful the people of Libby welcomed us with open arms.

Gene was preceded in death by his father and 2 brothers.  His passing was a shock to everyone; his having a heart attack was not what they expected.

He has left his love of his life, Arlene Lockhart, Libby, his 4 children, Chris Lockhart, Grass Valley, CA; Becca Lockhart, San Carlos, CA; Corey Lockhart, Grass Valley, CA; Nicholas Lockhart, Grass Valley, CA; step children, David Holcomb, Calabasas, CA; Mark Holcomb, Gilroy, CA; Michele Huni, Libby, MT; 12 grandchildren; his sister, Gale Taylor and brother-in-law Don Taylor of Bakersfield, CA, who was his friend, Gene considered Don a brother for over 70 years; his mother, Eleanor Wise, Bakersfield, CA; and lots of daughter in laws, son in law's, sister in laws, nieces and nephews.

Always tell your love ones you love them because you never know if that will be the last time you will see them. We said I love you many times during the day. Gene always and forever.

His memorial will be held in California where most of his family resides. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.

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