Richard Lynn Tucker

Richard was born in Bakersfield Ca. to proud parents Eula and Robert Tucker on March 1st, 1946. Rick was the youngest of two sons.

Growing up in Arvin, California, Rick loved spending time on the family ranch. He attended Haven Drive Elementary School and graduated from Arvin High School in 1964 where he was a fierce competitor on both the football and baseball fields. It was during Rick’s freshman year in High school that he met Janice Priddy who later would become his wife.

After high school, Rick attended Bakersfield College. In August of 1966, Rick and his high school sweetheart Jan would marry. Rick was then drafted by The United States Army where he quickly climbed the ranks to Staff Sergeant. In December 1969, he was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with “V’ Device for Heroism in Ground Combat while serving in Vietnam.

After returning from military service, Rick finished his AA degree and was employed by Tenneco West where he worked his way up to Director of Field Operations closely working with producers of almonds, pistachios, and raisins. Later, he would start his own business, Tucker Ag, working as a consultant and advocate for almond growers across California.

Over the years, Rick spent his free time playing golf as a member of Seven Oaks Country Club. He also had a passion for fishing. Rick looked forward to his yearly vacations to June Lake where he and the entire Tucker family continued the multi-generational traditional retreat, where he pursued his goal of out fishing the Hallum family. With the Shafter Fishing Club, he travelled the world in search of one just a little bigger. These men became his dear friends over the years. When they weren't fishing, you could find them at one of their favorite local restaurants or the 3B’s Shafter Men’s Club.

Rick spent many hours doing for others. As a volunteer, he pushed for women’s soccer to be part of the Kern County High School sports program as well as helping organize the first women’s club soccer tournaments in Bakersfield. He served as an usher at RiverLakes Community Church, a Norris Booster Club member, and coach for AYSO, NOR, and club soccer teams in Bakersfield.

Richard is survived by his loving wife Janice, daughter Angela Rasmussen (Tucker) and her husband William Rasmussen, son Richard L. Tucker Jr. and his wife Laurie Tucker (Baziuk). Richard’s pride and joy were his four grandchildren: Ashley Rasmussen, Emily Rasmussen, Kyler Tucker, and Brooklynn Tucker.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents Eula and Robert and older brother Robert Tucker Jr.

Richard will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park in a private ceremony. The family is hoping to host a celebration of his life at a time more conducive to everyone's safety.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Kern County Fellowship of Christian Athletes: www.kerncountyfca.org/donate.