Donald Lee Tucker

Tucker, Donald Lee

Our faithful and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Donald Lee Tucker, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, surrounded by his loving children. Don was born to Harold and Carolyn (Ravanni) Tucker on August 11, 1926, in Jackson, MI, where he spent most of his life. A graduate of Jackson High School, he met the love of his life and wife of 68 years there, Kay Tucker. Before marrying, Don attended Jackson Community College and then joined the Army Air Corps during WW II. After his discharge, he married Kay at St John's Catholic Church, and the newlyweds set out on an adventure to southern California. There, Don went to school at California Technological University to become an aeronautical engineer while Kay supported him by working as a secretary.

Upon returning to Jackson a few years later, Don was hired by Aeroquip Corporation to work as an engineer and later as New Products Sales Manager. He and Kay started a family shortly after their return, and they became the focus of their lives. They spent many days and hours boating, camping, vacationing, and attending sporting events. Don made many lifelong friends during his many years at Aeroquip, later Eaton, which took him all over the world. He spent much of his free time attending and participating in activities with his children, perfecting his card playing skills at friendly poker games and devotedly caring for his mother.

An avid fan of the Detroit Lions and Michigan State Spartans, Don enjoyed regularly attending and watching games. His love of fishing never faded, which he continued well into his 90s. It took him to many top fishing spots around the country. Along with those activities, he looked forward to the many travels he made with his family around and outside the country. Don and Kay especially loved their condo in Ft. Myers Beach and regular long excursions to Palm Springs.

Don was the patriarch of his large family, all of whom were directly touched by his kindness and unwavering love. He is survived by his children Gary (Cathy) Tucker of Bath MI, Kathy (Bob) Garrett of Jackson, and Laurie (James) Kolb of Jackson; his grandchildren, Heather Voight, Karey Walters, Jill McEldowney, Amanda Norton, Rachel Garrett, Katie Tucker, Jamie Hui, and Angie Kestner; 14 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his treasured wife Kay; his son Brian; his parents; his two brothers, Joe and Paul; many aunts and uncles and innumerable friends.

Don's life will be celebrated at the Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, June 8, at 11:00 AM at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Church in Jackson, MI with Father Timothy MacDonald officiating. His burial with Military Honors will occur directly after at St. Johns Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Cascades Humane Society or the Jackson Interfaith Shelter. The family wishes to thank Vicki Desy, his personal care assistant, for her service and kindness to our dad.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family Owned For 131 Years