Darrin "Tuck" T. Tucker

Darrin T. Tucker “Tuck”, 48 of Kangley went home to be with the Lord on the evening of  March 6, 2017 at home after a valiant battle with cancer.

Following cremation, A celebration of Tuck's life will be held on Saturday April 8, 2017 from 1:00pm–4:00pm at the Pontiac VFW.

Tuck was born on October 25, 1968 in Pontiac to Orrin and Barbara (Derossett) Tucker of Kangley, they survive. He is also survived by his daughter, Willow Tucker, sisters Cindy Tucker of Pontiac and Robin Tucker of Peoria.  Aunts, uncles, cousin, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and an adoring group of friends survive and mourn his loss. Tuck is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Clement and Bernice Tucker, maternal grandparents James and Grace Derossett and several aunts and uncles.

Tuck grew up in the small town of Odell, IL, a place where respecting your elders was expected and people were neighborly. He learned small town values that included caring, being friendly and helping any one in need. He attended Odell Grade School and graduated from Odell High School.

He loved working with his hands. He was a Certified Mechanic and was at home in a garage full of cars, trucks or motorcycles. The smell of fuel and grease was a part of his daily life. He was a Certified Professional Safety Driver and Transportation Specialist with the 179 Teamsters.  

Those strong truck driving, bolt tightening mechanics hands were equally content to fish, build train sets, decorate for the holidays, color Easter eggs, carve pumpkins and go trick-or-treating with his daughter, Willow and family.  

Darrin never knew a stranger. He loved to host large cook-outs and hanging out with friends. He loved the camaraderie when friends gathered. It wasn't hard to be his friend. Loyal until the end. He was quick to forgive and turn the other cheek. He wanted to believe the best of people. He wanted to be a good guy. He was.

For those who know him best, something changed 9 years ago. From the day Willow arrived, Tuck knew he wanted to be the best man he could be for his little girl. She taught him the meaning of loving fiercely and gently. He taught her every car, truck and tractor on the road by make and sometimes model. She taught him the joy that came in teaching her what he knew and learning with her what he didn't.

Tuck attended the Central Church of Christ. Together, Willow and her Daddy found their relationship was richer when they talked about God. Being a Daddy helped Tuck begin to grasp the unconditional love of a father for his children. Willow helped her Daddy learn to trust love's heart. Together, they met Jesus and have come to call him Lord and Savior. Not in fear of death, but so that in death they can be fearless.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the “Willow Tucker” education fund at any CEFCU bank or mail to 900 W Lake Ave. Peoria, IL 61614