Loyal, carefree, unapologetic, fun loving, adventurous
Described by his mother, Candace, as her “crazy, wild child,” Dylan showed up for his friends and family, day or night, offering a smile, and often a story. “Dylan was never afraid to do anything,” Candace said. “Don’t ever dare him because he would do it.” Though Dylan’s appearance with a beard, tattoos, a mullet, and an old bush hat portrayed a hard outer shell, he had a soft side to him, especially in making people feel worthy and cared for.
Dylan and his mom had a special bond. He was her “boy” and she was “the old incubator.” He was proud to have a new Dodge truck similar to hers. He also had a Harley Davidson that he loved. Dylan looked up to his dad, who he called “Master” because he was strict. They worked on restoring a 73 Nova Super Sport together and put on a big firework show every year. Dylan’s dad was proud of him.
After graduating from high school, Dylan immediately took responsibility for his life and went to work, first taking care of his bills and obligations and spending what remained on cars, motorcycles, and other things he enjoyed. After leaving Oklahoma, he spent three years working in the Texas oilfields. He then returned to Tulsa to work in construction like his father and brother.
Dylan was passionate about his guns, which he used for hunting and skeet shooting, and equally impassioned about protecting his family. Dylan went to the mountains every year for his favorite activities; camping, hunting, fishing, and being with his buddies.
Being around his family was a must for Dylan. He spent time with his older brother Zakary and sister-in-law, Brye, his niece Charlee, and nephew Cross. His youngest nephew, Cain, was born after Dylan passed away and was named after him. Other “family” was his best friend Andrew and wife Courtney and their three children. He had many other friends who he considered his “brothers.” Dylan was looking forward to one day having a family of his own.
At Thanksgiving dinner at Dylan’s home one month prior to his death, Dylan pulled his mom into the living room where his best friends were. He pointed to each one, making them promise they would take care of her if anything happened to him. His family knew that Dylan drank too much. They didn’t know that he was using drugs. “It really makes you look at things differently,” Candace stated.
Candance misses Dylan’s smile, his laugh, and phone calls. She imagines Dylan being warmly greeted to heaven by her mother, and enjoying his favorite M&M cookies that she continues to bake for his birthday and holidays.
Dylan’s mother, Candace Lockner, provided the information for this narrative.
February 28, 1998-December 20, 2021-Age 23
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
