James Arlen Lockert, 63, of Belle Fouche, SD, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Friday, November 15, 2019, at the Hettinger Hospital from the results of a major stroke. A celebration of Jim's life will be held at Smoky's on Saturday, June 20, 2020.

Jim was born December 9, 1955, in Lemmon, SD, to John and Alice (Froelich) Lockert. Following high school graduation, Jim worked numerous jobs before starting his career with UPS in 1982-97. Jim was an avid carpenter, having built furniture, remodeled homes, and resurrected Smokey's Bar and Grill in 1983. After his career with UPS, he worked various odd jobs as a ranch hand and driving truck.

On May 1, 1976, he married Kathy Semrau and through this union two children were born: Jamie Leigh (1978) and Jesse James (1980). They divorced in 1997.

Jim could usually be found with a fishing pole in his hand. He loved being on the prairie, hunting birds or deer. He had a gift to make others laugh with his quick, witty sayings.

Family celebrating the life of Jim are: daughter, Jamie (Kevin) Messamer, Cheyenne, WY, and son Jesse Lockert, Bowman, ND; his three grandchildren: Hunter, Allison, and Easton Messamer; four surviving siblings: Pat (Clint) Englehart, Rapid City, SD; Tom (Julie) Lockert, Bowman, ND; Barb (George) Martin, Carson City, NV; David (Leigh Ann) Lockert, Bowman, ND; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, especially Steve Sheldon, Keith Hulm, and the love of his life, Delretta Halvorson.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alice Lockert, and his brother, Mike Lockert.

Please join us in sharing memories and celebrating Jim's life at Smoky's on June 20, 2020.