John J. Tucker, Sr., 70, of 6769 Little John Rd., Belfast,
passed away Friday, March 31, 2017 at Olean General Hospital after a unexpected
brief illness.
He was born in Hume, New York on December 5, 1946 to Clark
D. and Jane M. Thomson Tucker, Sr. On September 9, 1967, in the Friendship
Baptist Church he married the former Bonnie K. Unfus who survives.
John was a graduate of Belfast Central School Class of 1964
and later graduated from Olean Business Institute with a degree in business. In
1982 he went to Alfred State College where he received a degree in Plumbing and
Heating.
He proudly served in the United States NAVY aboard the DDG-4
USS Lawrence from August 6, 1968 until being honorably discharged on June 30,
1972. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his service.
John had been employed as a Plant Utility Engineer for the
New York State Department of Corrections at Groveland prior to his retirement.
One of his many passions in life was running his family farm, which allowed him
countless hours of quality time with his family.
His greatest love in life was his family, especially his
grandchildren, nurturing them in any way he could. He was an avid reader,
family historian and loved music. John also enjoyed his longtime friendships he
made with the Amish community.
Surviving in addition to his wife are a son, John J.
(Jennifer) Tucker, Jr. Boston, NY; 2 daughters,,Beth M. (Tim) Rosier Freedom,
NY and Jennifer M. (Chad) DeRock
Granger, NY; 5 Grandchildren Hannah, Abigale, Lillian, Carley, and Hayley; 2 brothers,
William (Becky) Tucker Belfast, Joel (Linda) Tucker Rushford; Several Nieces
and Nephews.
In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a brother
Clark D. Tucker, Sr.
The family will receive friends at the Mark F. Rinker
Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull Street, Cuba on Thursday,
April 6, 2017 from 4-6 p.m. at which time a Memorial Service will be held. In
lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O.
Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the
family at www.rinkerfuneralhome.
