Barbara Virgena Locker (Thompson)

Barbara Virgena Locker (Thompson) was born June 6, 1935 in Missoula, Montana.  A homesteader beginning, rich with tales of good horses, tough families, and cowboys. Being a “Montana girl,” was a source of deep pride for Barb, and stories of her life have always spread rays of inspiration through those of us that followed. Making their way west eventually brought Barbara’s family to Friday Harbor, Washington where she met her loving husband of 65 years, Hugh George Locker, who was fishing the sound and came into harbor; the young handsome stranger meeting his beauty on the dock. This was truly the beginning of Barb’s story and a lifetime dedicated to what fueled her soul-family. From humble Bellingham beginnings of Hugh working multiple jobs, while able to fit all their belongings in one baby carriage to move, Hugh and Barb began their own love story with eldest son Mike, quickly followed by Pat. Six years later came John, and then Scott and the family had landed on a small farm in Ferndale. It was an idyllic childhood full of sports, boyhood adventures, community friendships, and food … really good home cooking!  Twelve grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren followed; countless family meals, innumerable sporting events, lifelong friendships; a village built around the love of two people. How to sum up a life that is lived for all those people above yourself? By Hugh’s side, she was Mom, Grandma, and GG above all else. Barbara passed out of this life June 15, but her spirit lives on in all the babies, recipes, songs and memories held by our family and all those she touched. There will be a celebration of life for both Barbara and Hugh on July 14, 2023 from 1-4 p.m. at the Ferndale Pioneer Pavilion.  Hospice played a tender role in the passing of our loved ones. Any donations to the Whatcom Hospice Foundation would be appreciated: 2901 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98225.