Eugene Thomas Lockhart, 75

On May 1, 2020, the love of Arlene Lockhart’s life became an angel in heaven. Eugene Thomas Lockhart, 75, was born Aug. 20, 1944. He was a twin, and his brother, Michael, was born a few minutes later to Eugene and Eleanor Lockhart in San Francisco, Calif.

He was raised in northern California and graduated from Aragon High School in 1962.

The love story begins: Gene and Arlene were truly meant for each other. On the first day of high school in September 1960 there was an overabundance of students at Burlingame High School. Half of the students from Aragon High School were to come to Arlene’s school while their school was being built. As young teenagers, rushing down the halls to get to class, Gene saw Arlene. Their eyes met instantly. Just like Gene always said, everything else stood still.

Freshmen year was unbelievable. They were together until Aragon High School was built. But they were both young. She was 14 years old and couldn’t date. Gene was 16.

After the separation, they didn’t see each other. Years passed and Gene got married. He raised a family and so did Arlene.

In 1987, Arlene went on a cruise and met a couple, Frank and Josephine, from San Mateo, Calif. Instantly, they became friends. Josephine also had attended Aragon. Arlene asked if she knew Gene Lockhart and, why, yes she did.

Every year Arlene was invited to their open house Christmas party. On Dec. 12, 1992, in the surprise of Arlene’s life, Josephine invited Gene. He knew she would be there but it was to be a surprise for her. When Arlene walked in, smiling at everyone, he recognized her. Thirty-two years later, he remembered Arlene by her smile. From that day on they were never separated.

They lived together for 15 years and were married Aug. 8, 2008, which was the happiest day of their lives. Their first dance together was “At Last” by Etta James. That’s what you call a soul mate.

Gene owned his own business for 50 years. He was very well known throughout northern California as Gene Lockhart, “The Muffler Man.” He loved his work and was very dedicated in making sure exhaust systems were perfect, better even than factory condition. Lots of famous people would come to him from all over, because they knew he was honest and just a great guy. He was always there to help.

When you became one of his friends, you were a friend forever. He loved to tease. The smallest things would make him happy. He just was a great guy. He had such a beautiful, contagious smile and never showed his age.

He treated me like a queen and was always by my side.

Gene and Arlene moved to Libby in 2015 and this became their home. They couldn’t believe how openly the wonderful people of Libby welcomed them.

Gene was preceded in death by his father and two brothers. His passing was a shock to everyone. His heart attack came unexpectedly.

He has left his love of his life, Arlene Lockhart of Libby; his four children, Chris Lockhart of Grass Valley, Calif., Becca Lockhart of San Carlos, Calif., Corey Lockhart of Grass Valley, Calif., Nicholas Lockhart of Grass Valley, Calif.; stepchildren, David Holcomb of Calabasas, Calif., Mark Holcomb of Gilroy, Calif., Michele Huni of Libby; 12 grandchildren; his sister, Gale Taylor and brother-in-law Don Taylor of Bakersfield, Calif. Gene considered Don a friend and brother for more than 70 years.

Gene also is survived by his mother, Eleanor Wise of Bakersfield, Calif.; and lots of daughters-in-law, sons-in-law and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

Always tell your loved ones you love them, because you never know if that will be the last time you see them. We said, “I love you” many times during the day. Always and forever.

His memorial will be held in California where most of his family resides. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.