Shirley Lockbeam

On a warm summer day, July 18, 1942, Shirley Jean Hinkel was born in a humble North Dakota farmhouse. The heavens glowed a little brighter, as if the universe paused to celebrate the birth of someone truly extraordinary—which would prove to be true. Her parents, Ray and Elma were overjoyed to welcome their first daughter into our world.

Growing up on a farm, she naturally developed a love of animals and had a keen sense of biology of how the body worked. She loved horses and never forgot the day her dad picked her up from school and surprised her with a Shetland Pony that she named Patsy. So began her love of riding. She also raised rabbits, cats, and had her own small herd of cattle. She was active in 4-H and other community social events. Church was also a regular part of family life.

A strong work ethic was another attribute she learned living life on a farm. She could often be found driving tractors, hauling hay bales, milking cows by hand and tending to livestock. The strength she gained was surely helpful while she made her impact on the high school basketball team. She graduated from Wing High School in 1960 and moved to Bismarck to attend beauty school.

Several years later, she married Harold Lockbeam. They lived briefly in Montana and with two kids, moved to White Bear Lake, MN and 4 more were born. Harold eventually moved on and this determined woman took on the incredible responsibility of raising 6 children on her own (and of course, any stray pets that came their way). Her strength and dedication to her children was unwavering. Despite the challenges and long days, Shirley never complained and always put the people she loved first. Birthdays and holidays were a special celebration. Her wrapped gifts were a work of art and birthday cakes were of course, homemade.

While raising her children, she worked in the accounting department at a prestigious law firm, and eventually started and ran her own cleaning business (finally retiring at almost 80 years old). Known by some of her clients as “Miss Sparkle,” her work ethic carried over into this area as well. People easily trusted her in their homes or businesses, enjoyed many warm conversations with her and appreciated the pride she took in doing exceptional work.

Her impressive lists of talents and loves didn’t stop there. Her homemade meals had a way of drawing people in, and many know her for her famous pumpkin bread and homemade jams. She loved to garden, can and freeze, was an avid reader, conquered many crossword puzzles and had a great sense of humor. 

She was a true best friend to many—offering a quiet strength, always willing to listen, laugh and offer support with her boundless amount of wisdom.

In the last couple of years she started to slow down, embracing a quieter pace after a lifetime of hard work and caring for others. Though it was clear she deserved the rest, she never stopped being the heart of her family. On September 8, Shirley passed away of natural causes in the comfort of her own home, at the age of 82. While the loss is immeasurable, her legacy of love, strength and selflessness will continue to live on in all of us who were blessed to know her. Let us honor her memory by loving others deeply with the kindness and compassion that she did.

Shirley is survived by her children Tambra, Robin, Tonette, Trent and Rachelle, along with 15 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Also, by her brother Dwight (Sheila) and furry friend Kitten. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Raymond and Elma, son Troy, brother Darrel and grandson Cory. 

Funeral Service Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11:00 am at MUELLER MEMORIAL, 4738 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake with visitation starting at 10:00 am. Interment St. John in the Wilderness Church Cemetery, White Bear Lake. 

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness … and the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 NLT