Lasting Memories
Steven Lee Lockhart
July 6, 1947-Dec. 2, 2025
Colorado Springs, Colorado
With great sadness and a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Steven Lee Lockhart, 78, recently of Colorado Springs, Colorado, on December 2, 2025. Born on July 6, 1947 in Portland, Oregon, Steve was a devoted husband to Janet and a loving father to son, Brian, and daughters, Karen, Jennifer and Wendy.
Steve will always be remembered as a man who loved and cared for his family. From providing care to his wife, Janet, to his love and compassion shown to his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids, Grandpa was always ready to share a hug and encouraging word.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Janet, his children Brian Lockhart and Karen Stirling, his grandchildren, Tyler Clafton, Daniel Lewis, Austin Lewis, Caleb Lockhart and Jennifer George, and his great grandchildren, Nala Lewis, Scarlet Lewis, Jace Lewis, August George, Emmett George, Ellis George and Atlas George, as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Marian Jones, his brother, Don Sanasac, and two daughters, Jennifer and Wendy.
Steve’s legacy, in addition to his love for family, will be how generously he gave to causes that touched his heart. He served as the first Board Chair for the School of Imagination in Dublin, California, served as President of the Dublin Historical Preservation Association, Member of City of Dublin Planning Commission, City of Dublin Parks & Community Services Commission, Dublin Sister City Association and a member of the Dublin Lions Club. He will always be known as Coach Steve to the many kids he coached during his lifetime.
A Memorial Service will be held in March 2026 in Dublin, California for family and friends to celebrate his life of generosity and service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the School of Imagination to help in the education of autistic children (https://schoolofimagination.org/).
Steve will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him, and we will cherish the sweet memories of his kind and gentle spirit.
Dec. 18, 2025
To say Steve and his wife, Janet Lockhart, helped launch SOI would be an understatement—they were, and always will be, part of the SOI family. When Janet, then Mayor of Dublin, hosted a roundtable to support local nonprofits, Mitch attended to share our vision. Some felt our dream of creating a school for children with disabilities was too ambitious. Even Oprah’s team hesitated. But not Janet. From that moment on, Steve and Janet embraced our vision—and our children—as part of their extended family. They joined us for our first-ever board meeting in our dining room in 2007 and supported us every step of the way. Even after they moved to Colorado five years ago, their belief in SOI never wavered. Steve wore many hats through the years: He was Santa during our holiday celebrations. He was the pancake chef at countless family events. He was the quiet cheerleader who showed up, supported us behind the scenes, and made sure every staff member felt seen and appreciated—often through the incredible meals he prepared himself. Steve and Janet stood beside us during the most challenging transitions, always offering wisdom and grace. If you’ve ever ridden in our elevator lift, you’ll find a small but meaningful tribute etched in a heart: “S.L. + J.L.” Their legacy is truly built into the walls of this school. Steve had an enormous heart and a gentle soul. He believed in dreaming big and in lifting others along the way. He made people feel heard. He made them feel valued. That’s what we carry forward today. As we enter this holiday season, we will be thinking of Steve—with full hearts and deep gratitude for the love, belief, and service he gave so freely. With love and remembrance, Charlene, Mitch & the SOI Family