If you run into Beth Locke outside of work, you’ll most likely find her kayaking, biking, gardening, or walking her brown dog, Gromit—anything outside.
As for work, she recently became a licensed funeral director. But, being a Locke, she’s certainly not new to the Locke Funeral Services team.
“Growing up, the funeral home was just ‘going to grandma’s and grandpa’s,’” Beth said. “I grew up at Locke on Fourth. It was just a comforting place for me. It still is.”
Still, it took Beth a bit of time before she realized she wanted to go into the family business full time. After high school, she attended college and received a degree in aviation science and, to this day, holds a commercial pilot’s license. She also holds an associate degree in horticulture and, most recently, a degree in mortuary science.
Beth lived in various states during her time away, including Missouri and Colorado. Since returning to the Cedar Valley in 2014, however, Beth has found her calling.
“I wasn’t sure if I could handle it,” Beth said of her hesitation. “It can be an emotionally challenging role. But after working at Locke’s, especially these last few years, I realized—this is what I want.”
When asked what she loves most about her work, she said variety was a key factor—not only because she’s worked in nearly every area of Locke Funeral Services, but because people are unique and have unique needs.
“Every day is different,” Beth said. “You’re working with different families and situations. Everyone has a different idea of how they want to remember their loved ones. And it’s so rewarding to listen to what they need and put their wishes into action.”
She added that this is a common feeling among the Locke team. In fact, it’s central to the way they approach each funeral service.
“We truly care and strive to find what each family is looking for in a memorable service,” Beth said. “It’s an important part in the grieving process, and it’s different for everyone. It’s why we offer a variety of options to meet those specific needs.”
Locke’s newest location, Locke at Tower Park, serves as an example of how the Locke’s team meets each family’s unique needs. This location has the latest technology and a variety of spaces to accommodate services of all types, from traditional to contemporary.
“At Locke at Tower Park, everything is available in one location,” Beth said. “The opportunity to stay together as a family without having to change location—from the visitation to the service to the meal—it means a lot.”
The new building is a big change, for Locke’s and for the community. And Beth foresees many more changes in the future when it comes to their offerings. But what won’t change are Locke’s core values.
“It depends on what the community is looking for,” Beth said. “The core of Locke is not going to change. So, we are going to continue to find and add offerings the community wants at the time of a loss, but with the same compassion and integrity we have now.”
If you need any funeral services, please contact Locke Funeral Services by calling 319-233-6138. Our staff is ready to assist you with any of your needs.
