Locke Larkin, 79, owner of Locke Stock & Barrel in Great Barrington, passed away Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, at Berkshire Medical Center after a short illness.
Born Aug. 21, 1940, he was the son of the late Leo and Phyllis Lycett Larkin. Locke attended local schools and graduated from the former Searles High School class of 1958. He then went on to Westfield State College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. He taught science and math in the Springfield school system for many years. He also proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from Sept. 12, 1961, until being honorably discharged June 12, 1964.
In 1986 he married his wife, Patricia Duffley Larkin, who joined him in the operation of Locke Stock & Barrel. The gourmet market was known for its fine wines, cheeses and hard-to-find spices, which Locke prided himself in locating for his customers. Locke was the health inspector for the town of Great Barrington from 2006 to the present. He was a member of various local boards including the zoning board of appeals.
He had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh that was enjoyed by many. Aside from his love for food and wine, his greatest joys were his children, grandchildren and their Sunday dinners. He always looked forward to spending time with his friends, especially on their golf trips. He was a passionate nature and animal lover and birdwatcher.
Locke is survived by his wife of 33 years, Pat; and their children: Jennifer Rabidoux Rubino and husband Thomas, and Nathan Rabidoux and wife Claudine He also leaves his grandchildren: Anna, Olivia and Anthony Rubino; Jakob, Ela and Mia Rabidoux; and Connor and Alexis Pfalzgraf. He is also survived by sister Martha Larkin Szewczak and several nieces and nephews, as well as his good friends and golf buddies Doug Wilbur and Dickie Larkin. Besides his parents, Locke was predeceased by his sister Laura Jean Larkin Montrose.
The funeral service for the late Locke Larkin will be held Monday, Jan. 20, 2020, at noon at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington, conducted by Rev. William Murphy. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Great Barrington. The family will receive friends Monday, Jan. 20, from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Locke Larkin Memorial Fund in care of Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA. 01230. To send remembrances to the family, go to www.finnertyandstevens.com.
