John C. Lockard

John was born in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania in 1949 to Marian and Harold Lockard. After the death of his father in 1958, eight-year-old John attended Girard College, a boarding school for fatherless boys. During his seven years at Girard, John was recognized for being reserved and friendly in manner, while purposeful and tenacious in his responsibilities. He was an accomplished student-athlete and a member of the soccer and wrestling teams.

John attended Drexel University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Food Service Administration in 1970. While at Drexel, he continued his athletic career as a member of the soccer and wrestling teams. In 1975, he completed his education at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his Certificate of Proficiency in Physical Therapy.

John’s life was marked by service to others, expressed through his work, volunteerism, and relationships.

After working in the physical therapy departments at Good Sheperd Rehabilitation and Germantown Hospitals, he founded Northwest Physical Therapy in 1982. He owned and operated NWPT for 35 years before selling the practice to two longtime employees. He was deeply proud that the business would remain an independent practice, continuing its focus on providing the highest quality patient care.

John devoted decades to youth athletics and community involvement. From 1988 to 2021, he coached numerous youth soccer teams for his children and many other young athletes in the Upper Dublin community. Alongside his wife, Meg and others, he also volunteered with TOPSoccer, a program serving children with disabilities.

After retiring, John continued to devote much of his time to helping others. He volunteered with DeafCAN, a nonprofit organization led by his brother and sister-in-law that supports individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or DeafBlind. At the time of his passing, he was taking American Sign Language classes so he could better communicate with those he served. He also volunteered at the Mattie Dixon Community Cupboard in Ambler and worked at the polls during elections.

John was known by friends and family for his thoughtfulness and consistency in maintaining relationships. He regularly called to check in, ask how others were doing, and see if they needed anything. He loved to laugh, typically had a joke ready at all times, and was always there for a friend or loved one in need.

John is survived by his wife, Meg, of 45 years; his children, Brian and his wife Amy, Matthew and his wife Nicole, and Dana Gutierrez and her husband Humberto; his grandchildren, Matthew, Jude, and Weston; his brothers, Stephen and Bill, and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, 1460 Limekiln Pike, Dresher, PA 19025 on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Visitation will be at 10AM, the service at 11AM, and a luncheon will follow in fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to DeafCAN PA at https://deafcanpa.org/donate/