Obituaries

William David “Bill” Lockhart, age 81, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away
unexpectedly on December 16, 2025. He was born on June 22, 1944, in Sault Ste. Marie to the
late Mervin George and Janice Vivian (Batho) Lockhart.

Bill grew up in Pickford, Michigan, and graduated from Pickford High School. On June 22,
1968, he married the love of his life, Virginia “Ginny” Splan, at Holy Family Catholic Church in
Barbeau, Michigan. Together, they shared over fifty-seven years of marriage, building a life
deeply rooted in family.

A veteran of the United States Army, Bill served during the Vietnam War before earning his
bachelor’s degree in mathematics education. He dedicated the majority of his career to the Sault
Area Public Schools, where he influenced countless lives as both a teacher and a coach.

Bill never met a stranger; he had a rare gift for making anyone feel like an old friend within
minutes. While he was a dedicated educator, he was defined most by his role as a loving family
man and a selfless neighbor. Whether he was coaching youth sports, lending a hand over a
backyard fence, or quietly plowing a neighbor’s driveway, Bill’s kindness was always in motion.
In his quieter moments, he found peace hunting in the great outdoors or channeling his patience
into woodworking, often gifting his handcrafted creations to loved ones.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia “Ginny” Lockhart; his son, Matthew (Jamie)
Lockhart of Iron Mountain, Michigan; his cherished grandsons, Jake Lockhart and Luke
Lockhart; sisters-in-law, Nancy Lockhart of Pickford and Sharon Splan of Macomb, Michigan;
and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law, Margaret Henderson; brother,
Mervin James “Jim” Lockhart; sister and brother-in-law, Judith (Frank) Nixon; brothers-in-law,
George Splan, Fred Splan, and Dan Splan; and his niece, Shelly Lockhart.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at
Family Life Funeral Homes, 24549 S. M-129, Pickford, MI 49774. The funeral service will
follow beginning at 12:00 Noon with a luncheon to be held afterward.

In accordance with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Bill will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and neighbors. Of
course, no memory of Bill would be complete without mentioning his legendary sweet tooth and
his lifelong affinity for Snickers and Cherry Coke.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.familylifefh.com.