John Lockwood died August 21, 2020 in Grand Rapids, MI at the age of 96. A beloved
father, he was surrounded by family in his final days. John was raised in Hastings, Michigan.
He was called to service in the U.S. Army during World War II. After basic training he was sent
on a 49-day journey by sea to India where he served as an x-ray technician for three years.
He returned home after the war and entered Michigan State College where he earned a
B.A. in Botany, and a M.S. in Plant Pathology. He then entered The University of Wisconsin
where he earned a PhD. in Plant Pathology.

He joined the faculty of Michigan State University where he worked his entire career. His
research focused on soil-based agricultural diseases, with an emphasis on peas and
soybeans. He taught a graduate course on plant diseases for several years. He authored
many research articles, and served as a consultant to Brazilian agricultural interests. He
served his professional society, The American Phytopathological Society in many capacities,
starting as member and chair of various committees and culminating as President. He
enjoyed two sabbatical leaves, one in Cambridge, England, and another in Baarn, The
Netherlands. In 1990 he was awarded Distinguished Faculty in the College of Natural
Science at Michigan State University.

John married Jean Springborg, and their children, James Lockwood and Laura Lockwood,
and his daughter-in-law, Adele Lockwood, survive him. John and his wife Jean passed away
just two days apart. John and Jean enjoyed travel, dancing, tennis, concerts at Michigan
State University, and other cultural activities for many years. He also enjoyed refinishing
furniture, and fishing with his son, Jim. John and Jean were active members of Okemos
Community Church for over 50 years.

Jean and John moved to Grand Rapids in 2010 and were able to enjoy many of the special
features of West Michigan.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private celebration of life will be held.

The family suggests that those who wish to express sympathy in the form of a donation
consider giving to their favorite charity, or making a gift to Frederik Meijer Garden &
Sculpture Park.