Ruth Weigle (née Troester) was born in McGregor, Iowa, where she later met Larry Weigle on a double date. On Sept. 15, 1962, the two married and had four children together. They lived in McGregor for a time before moving to Larry’s hometown of Waterloo following the death of John Weigle, Larry’s father. John’s service was Ruth’s first experience with Locke Funeral Services. Locke’s has been a presence and a source of comfort for Ruth and her family ever since.
“I remember when we went to make plans for Larry’s service,” Ruth said. “As we walked up, there stood Eric and Jack Locke at the door, waiting to greet us. It’s a small gesture. But that was so comforting to me.”
Larry passed away in February 2022. And just 14 months prior, they lost their son, Andrew, unexpectedly. Each time, Locke’s was there to help.
“Comfort is the word,” Ruth said. “They know what you need before you do. It’s overwhelming when you experience a death in your family. They have a way of gently guiding you. Helping you process what has to be done.”
Larry’s service was held at Locke’s newest location, Locke at Tower Park. This location has the latest technology and a variety of spaces to accommodate services of all types, from traditional to contemporary. For Larry’s service, this meant everything could take place in one location—from the visitation to the service, and even the meal.
Locke’s also assisted with each detail of the service that honored and celebrated Larry’s life. Because it’s the little things that make saying goodbye more personal, more comforting, and more meaningful.
“My family really appreciated how the mementos were arranged for the service,” Ruth said. “They were displayed so nicely, so people could really see Larry’s story and what he did in his lifetime.”
For Locke’s, our role isn’t finished when a funeral service has concluded. We have resources to help those experiencing a loss understand their grief, work through their feelings, and build out a support system.
“They follow up,” Ruth said. “They call and see if you’re doing OK, and that means a lot.”
We at Locke’s believe it is our purpose to offer help fairly, honestly, and compassionately. We believe we have a responsibility to help people make the right decisions for themselves by providing information and explaining the options available. When a decision is reached, our help is available to carry out your instructions.
“To me, they’re the only ones,” Ruth concluded. “I couldn’t recommend them any higher. They are just top people. Just the most gracious, kind, very caring people. You can tell it’s very genuine. This is the way they are.”
If you are in need of 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.
