C.M., O.N.L.
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Otto Tucker age 92, loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and brother, on Tuesday, October 6th at Saint Patrick's Mercy Home. Leaving to mourn his wife of 60 years, Ruby (Perry); his sons William and Craig; his daughters-in-law Karen (Delaney) and Kelley (Fewer); his grandchildren, whom he adored, Kathryn, Andrew, Nathan, and Lily, as well as many nieces and nephews. Dr. Tucker was pre deceased by his parents John and Clara (Pitcher); as well as his sister Florence Rowsell and his nephew John Rowsell. A well-known educator in Newfoundland and Labrador, born in Winterton Trinity Bay in 1923 and graduate of Memorial, University, University of Alberta and University of Toronto. Dr. Tucker served as a Salvation Army officer/teacher and school principal in various communities throughout the province. After teaching at Acadia University and the University of Toronto, he was appointed to the Faculty of Education at Memorial University where he remained until his retirement in 1995. A prolific author, he was known for his humorous commentaries on the Newfoundland and Labrador experience. He has also appeared on TV specials as Grandpa Walcott, a lovable character of Ted Russell's classics: The Holdin' Ground and Grand Pa's New Industry. Accompanying his accolades in the field of education is his co-founding of the Wessex Society of Newfoundland, an association which promotes Newfoundland's ties to the West Country of England. This connection has resulted not only in material benefits to the province such as the restoration of the Garland House in Trinity, but has also resulted in educational benefits such as research and study tours between both countries. Many awards have been bestowed upon Dr. Tucker such as the Order of Canada, the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Canada 125 medal, the Heritage Award of the Newfoundland Historical Society, the Silver Cross of St. George and the honorary degree of doctor of laws from Memorial University. His efforts have made significant contributions to both the educational and cultural sectors of our province. He has assisted in the quest to help us identify our strong ancestral ties that make us the proud people we are today. Dr. Tucker's family would like to give a special thanks to the wonderful staff at Saint Patrick's Mercy Home for their hard work, dedication and caring, during his time spent in their care. A visitation will take place at Carnell's Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, Monday, Oct. 12th from 2 - 4 pm and from 7 - 9 pm. A service of song and remembrance will be held at the Salvation Army Temple Torbay Rd, Tuesday, October 13th at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Prostate Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. To send a message of condolences or to sign the memorial guestbook, please visit www.carnells.com