Ernest L. Lockwood

   Ernest L. Lockwood, 77, of Mascoutah, IL born Nov. 7, 1948, in Fort Totten, NY died Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at Cedar Ridge Health Center, Lebanon, IL.

   Ernie was a career Air Force officer working with the US space program in many capacities. He served at the Air Force Satellite Control Facility, was assigned to NASA as a military mission controller for the space shuttle program in Houston and continued with the space program at Patrick AFB until retirement. He got his private pilot’s license at 16 and taught at Scott AFB Aero Club. He enjoyed flying for civilian companies, teaching at Southwestern Illinois College and Flight Safety International. Ernie was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Mascoutah, the Arnold Air Society, and a recipient of the General Carl A. Spaatz award. Ernie enjoyed visiting numerous national parks, hiking, bicycling, and spending time with family.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester F. and Annliese M., nee Sternegger, Lockwood.

   Ernie is survived by his wife, Marlene M., nee Klingelhoefer, Lockwood whom he married at Zion Lutheran Church in Mascoutah on July 31, 1970; two sons, Christopher (Lisa) Lockwood, Bradley (Gina) Lockwood; five grandchildren, Gabriel, Annaliese, Jacob, Beatrice, Winifred Lockwood; a sister, Marie (Jeff) Reno; a brother, Robert Lockwood; sisters-in-law; also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

   Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Memorial Fund, 101 S. Railway, Mascoutah, IL 62258. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting mollfuneralhome.com

   Visitation: Visitation will be from 9 to 10 AM Wednesday Feb. 18, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Mascoutah, IL.

   Funeral: A funeral service will be held 10 AM Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor Joel Dietrich officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Mascoutah City Cemetery, Mascoutah, IL.