William E Tucker

William Eugene Tucker, 77, of Pekin, passed away at 12:29 pm on Monday, February 13, 2012 at Wuesthoff Medical Center in Rockledge, FL.Born October 20, 1934 to William R. and Helen (Waldbeser) Tucker, he married Ruby Farley on February 12, 1960 in East Peoria.                                                                   Surviving are his wife; 3 daughters Gena Tucker of Palm Bay, Florida, Mandy Shaw of East Peoria and Johanna (Walt) Neltner of Peoria; 1 son M. Tyler Tucker of Pekin; 1 grandson Spencer Shaw of Pekin and 1 granddaughter, Montana Neltner of Peoria; and one “adopted” daughter, Dana Smith of Palm Bay, FL.                                                   He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers Chris, Richard, Butch; and 2 sisters Sarah and S.Kay Tucker of Pekin.                                                                                  In his teens, he worked for Rickett Grain. He served in the US Army from 1957 – 59.  Before retiring in 1996, he was a loyal and hard worker for 37 years at a local warehouse/trucking company.  He also delivered the Journal Star for 18 years and did yard work for others as a side job.  Working in his own yard was his way to relax.          Bill became critically ill after having heart valve surgery on Feb. 4, 2011.  As a result he spent the next 7 months in 4 different hospitals returning home on September 8, 2011.  Remembering the winter snows of February, 2011, his family wanted him to experience the summer warmth, flowers, etc. he had missed.  He and his wife were enjoying a visit with their daughter Gena, when he again became ill and very weak.  He passed away with family at his side.  He is loved and is missed.                                                            Cremation has been accorded.  There will be no services or visitation.      

                      To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com