Laverne "Foot" Charles Locken

LaVerne Charles Locken, affectionately known as “Foot,” passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, at the age of 85. Though he had been living in College Place, Washington, Foot was a lifelong resident of La Grande, Oregon — a town he loved deeply and never stopped calling home.

Foot was born on November 10, 1939, in La Grande, Oregon. After graduating from La Grande High School, he met and married the love of his life, Laura Nell, and they shared over 64 years of marriage together. Their bond was strong, loving, and inspiring. They welcomed their first son, Larry, in 1962, followed by their second son, David, in 1963.

Foot was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Nell; sons, Larry (Jennifer) and David (Kimberly); grandchildren, Natosha, Nichole (Matthew) Tysen, Lance, Victoria, McKenzie; and great-grandchildren Elena, Corinne, Josie, and Micah. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Foot began his working life at the stud mill in Elgin with Boise Cascade before being hired as a full-time firefighter with the La Grande Fire Department — a role he took great pride in. Serving the community where he was born and raised was an honor, and he formed lifelong friendships with his fellow firefighters.

Foot loved the outdoors and had a knack for storytelling. Whether it was recalling the big Chinook Salmon he caught at the mouth of the Deschutes, the last buck he harvested near Meacham, or fishing trips on the Snake River, Foot could always spin a tale that brought laughter and joy. He also had a talent for finding the best wild mushrooms and picking quarts of fresh huckleberries.

He never missed a chance to cheer on his sons at La Grande Tiger football games, and those Friday nights remain some of the family’s fondest memories. Foot was always ready for 18 holes of golf with family and friends and was always up for a cruise. Foot and Nell were active members with the American Legion and volunteered at the Food Bank in La Grande.

Throughout his life, Foot shared delicious food with family, friends, and co-workers.  He enjoyed cooking and created the best comfort food, such as meat, potatoes, gravy, carrot cake, fudge, and caramel corn. No one could resist his Fireman (Foot) Cookies.

He will be deeply missed — by his family, his friends, his fellow firefighters, and by the town that was lucky to call him its own.

A funeral service will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Walla Walla, WA, at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 1, 2025. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Island City Cemetery, Island City, OR, with a reception to follow at the American Legion, located at 301 Fir Street, La Grande, OR.