ennis Joe “Denny” Tucker was born on September 30, 1942 in Iowa City, Iowa to Harold and Helen (Potter) Tucker. Denny passed away on February 10, 2018 at James A. Haley VA Medical Center in Tampa, Florida.
Family
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary Tucker. Additionally, he is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Leslie Tucker, (Toodie) of Lakeland, Florida; son Ryan Tucker of Rochester, New York and many nieces, nephews and friends. Denny’s father, Harold Tucker, was a WWII veteran who was killed in action at the age of 19 and was buried at sea. Harold served on the Navy aircraft carrier, USS Intrepid.
Life
Denny was a proud Army veteran and also enjoyed spending time with his family and Iowa Hawkeye football. He was very proud to be from Iowa and never forgot his roots. Denny was also an avid golfer.
Military
Denny served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. At the time of his honorable discharge Denny was eligible to wear the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Good Conduct Award, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, one Overseas Service Bar, and his designation as an expert with the M-14 and M-16 rifle on his uniform. During the Vietnam War, Denny participated in the infamous Tet Offense which was a large scale attack against the United States military by the North Vietnamese Army.
Services
A funeral service with military honors provided by the United States Army is scheduled for Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Hamiltons Funeral Home in Des Moines, Iowa. A public visitation will begin at 12:00 pm.
Special Acknowledgements
The family asks that any memorial contributions be made to the Fisher House at James Haley VA Medical Center which provide living arrangements for families of veterans who are receiving care at the VA Medical Center. Leslie would also like to personally thank Ryan Tucker and Stephanie Arduser for their loving assistance during this difficult time.
Friends, family and those who served with Denny are invited to share a memory and sign his guestbook below.
