James B. Lockner

James Bernard Lockner went to be with our Lord in Heaven at home on the evening of December 29, 2013, with his loving family by his side. James was born in Emporia, Kansas on August 14, 1934 to Bernard Lockner and Louise Hannah. He and his family moved to Los Angeles at the age of 5. He graduated from Dorsey High School, where he lettered in track and field and was class president. He was also an Eagle Boy Scout and later became the Boy Scout Master of troop 192. Jim attended Pepperdine University and earned a degree in Science and Education and was a member of the Beta Tau Delta Fraternity. During the 1960s, Jim taught Biology at Duarte High School and was the ASB Activities Director. Jim helped to form CADA (California Association of Directors of Activities) which has grown into the largest statewide support network for Activity Directors in the nation. Jim served as president and was later inducted into the CADA Hall of Fame. He furthered his academic career with a Masters Degree from UCLA and a PHD in Education at USC. He met and married the love of his life, also a fellow teacher, Mary Glidden and they shared 48 wonderful years together before her passing in 2005. Daughters Linda and Jennifer brought much joy to the Lockner family and they all enjoyed many summer vacations, camping in the Sierras and national parks. Boating, hiking and fishing became a family favorite as well. In later years, Jim and Mary enjoyed traveling to many countries and tropical beaches, were active in an RV group, going on cruises and cheering on the Trojans at the USC football games. In the late 1960's, the Lockner family moved to Torrance, California, where Jim began teaching at Torrance High School. He also served as the Principal and Director of Activities and was a Vice Principal at South High School. Jim was a longtime member of Riviera Methodist Church, the Lions Club and the Jaycees. A dedicated husband, father and grandfather, Jim was the life of any party; his broad smile and vivacity would light up any room. He had the capacity to talk to anyone in any situation, especially with his sense of humor. His spirit and memory will continue to live in the hearts of all those who knew him and he will be deeply missed by all his family and friends. He was a mentor to many people and touched many lives. He is survived by daughters Linda Scott of Torrance and Jennifer Ballentine (Derek) of Monument, CO; grandchildren Michelle Scott, Jessica Ballentine and Blake Ballentine; as well as many relatives and friends. A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at Green Hills Memorial Park, 27501 S. Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes. Burial and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Riviera United Methodist Church in his loving memory: RUMC 375 Palos Verdes Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.

Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275