Kenneth E. Locker, Sr., 76, of Burwell passed away on Monday, August 7, 2023; at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Kenneth Edward was born July 1, 1947, at Burwell, Nebraska to Mark Kenneth and Evelyn Pearl (Hennings) Locker.  He grew up in Burwell where he received his early education and graduated from Burwell High School in 1965.

Ken lived his entire life in Burwell and worked in many capacities, including maintenance and repair at the Burwell Rodeo grounds, the local hardware store and the Potato Factory. He also worked at the Garfield Department of Roads, Nelson's Sand & Gravel, and Cone Farmhand. He spent time in Norfolk at Crafts Inc.; worked as a bridge repairman; and in South Dakota at Onezerone Inc. and Steele Building Services Inc. Lastly he worked at Danner Ranch and retired in April of 2016.

On May 5, 1977, Ken was united in marriage to Marilyn Louise Flavell at the United Methodist Church in Burwell. Ken welcomed three step-children and the couple was blessed with three more children.

For over 30 years, Ken was a devoted member of the Burwell Fire and Rescue Department. He belonged to the Gold Star Dads and Gold Star Families since 2007; and supported the NRA.

Ken was a family man that loved being with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a story teller; and enjoyed sharing his life experiences and passing down his knowledge. Ken knew no stranger and could visit with anyone.

He was an outdoorsman who went fishing and boating. He spent a lot of timing tinkering in his shop, fixing things and was always willing to help others in need.

Survivors include his two daughters and sons-in-law, Carmon and Gary Petters of Wayne and Kristine and William Longe of Bridgewater, South Dakota; step-son, Mike Kellums; sixteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his fur baby, Miss Lady that he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marilyn; a son, Kenneth Locker, Jr.; a grandson, Keatian Petters; and two step-daughters, Kathy Duvall and Bonnette Messmer.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 12, 2023; at the Calamus Trinity Methodist Church in Burwell. Pastor Alan Petersen will officiate. Private Inurnment will be in the Cottonwood Cemetery at Burwell. Visitation will be held on Saturday at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Memorials are suggested to the family.