The Pikes Peak Road Runners, a local running club and nonprofit that celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, lost one of its most beloved members when Patricia “Pat” Lockhart died suddenly at home last week. Lockhart, who served in multiple roles during more than 40 years with the Road Runners, was 76.

“Pat was the heart and soul of Road Runners — she was the glue that held us together, our institutional memory and someone who pitched in whenever and wherever she was needed,” club President Wayne Heilman said in a statement. “We owe a debt of gratitude to Pat that can never be repaid.”

A Greeley native, Lockhart joined the Pikes Peak Road Runners when she relocated to Colorado Springs. She was routinely the club’s top volunteer; in the 12-month period ending Sept. 30, she had given 419 hours, according to club records.

“Losing Pat leaves a really big hole for us, and not just because of all the work she did,” said Road Runners Treasurer Sandy Kloster. “She was a light for so many people.”

The organizational force behind nearly every Road Runners event, Lockhart wore many hats over the years, including race director, membership chairman, treasurer and four stints as president, Heilman said.

“I very much appreciated Pat’s help when I unexpectedly became president of (PPRR) late last year,” he stated.

Coordinating a race requires organizational skill, institutional knowledge and the ability to cultivate solid relationships with city and county officials. Lockhart possessed all these qualities and more, club members said.

“She loved being around people, and helping people, and being part of something that was making a difference in the community,” said club Secretary Marilyn Goodloe. “She never complained about having so many roles. It brought her joy.”

Lochkart remained active with the club until the very end, according to club officials. In July, she organized the Road Runners’ 50th anniversary celebration, which hosted about 200 members. On Nov. 1, the day before she died, she oversaw the Nielson Challenge, Heilman said.

“It will take several volunteers to fill her shoes. She did so many things for us,” Kloster said.

But what club members will miss most is her kindness and her generous spirit.

“She treated everyone like they were her own kids,” said club member Raymond Bailey. “Every time we run I know she will be hugging us from the heavens above as she shines her light upon us.”

Lockhart was predeceased by her parents, Everette and Rita, as well as brothers John, Thomas and Kevin. She is survived by her sister Lynda, brothers Mark and Tim, and the hundreds of Pikes Peak Road Runners who had become her second family.

A reception in Lockhart’s honor will be held Nov. 21 at the Downtown YMCA, 207 N. Nevada Ave. Memorial services will be private.