Christopher P. Locher, 50, formerly of Austin, died at his residence in Minneapolis on July 7, 2011.

Christopher Paul Locher was born June 5, 1961, in Austin, to John and Virginia (Guiney) Locher. Chris graduated from Pacelli High School in 1979. He enlisted in the National Guard in 1978 and served as a Sergeant in the Army from 1980 to 1984. While in the Army, he received medals for Army Good Conduct, Driver and Mechanic Badge, Driver with Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon.

Chris loved hiking, nature walks, writing and helping people. In May, he assisted survivors from the tornado damage in Minneapolis.

Chris is survived by his daughter, Justine Moss of Redmond, Ore.; grandson, Jayden of Redmond; parents, John and Virginia Locher of Austin; brothers, Dan (Cindy) Locher of Apple Valley, Minn., John (Holly) Locher of New Market, Minn.; sisters, Dana (Randy) Foote of Le Center, Minn., Rebecca (Jeff) Locher of Rochester, Minn., Michelle (Aaron) Mullenbach of Adams, Minn., Heidi Capretz of Austin, Sarah (Don) Locher of Austin; aunts; uncles; nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; aunts and a special uncle, Landol.

Honorary casket bearers are Dana Foote, Dan Locher, Rebecca Locher, Michelle Mullenbach, Heidi Capretz, John Locher and Sarah Locher.

A memorial service will be held at noon Friday, July 15, at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with Father Paul Nelson officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may greet the family 11 a.m. Friday until the time of the service.