Donald James Tucker

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Donald J. Tucker, who passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, in Denver, CO, at the age of 88. Donald was born on October2, 1936, in Detroit Lakes, MN, to Goldie Hoff Tucker and Lee Tucker. He grew up in Detroit Lakes and graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1955, where he was a standout athlete in basketball, football, cross-country running, track, and golf. Donald continued his athletic pursuits at North Dakota State University (NDSU), where he became a four-sport Bison athlete, competing in multiple sports at a time when it was rare for college athletes to do so. He graduated from NDSU with a Doctorate in Pharmacy.

In November 1957, Donald married Donna Lia, also from Detroit Lakes, and they began their life together in Billings, MT, and Veblen, SD. They eventually settled in Boone, IA, where they raised four children: Greg (Cyndie) Tucker, Jeff (Christy) Tucker, Kevin (Naomi) Tucker, and Lisa (Alan). Donald was a proud father and later a doting grandfather to seven grandchildren: Will, Emily, Ben, Michael, Briauna, Kelsie, and Alexandra, and two great-grandchildren.

 Donald had a successful career as a pharmacist, owning Medical Associates Pharmacy and later expanding to two pharmacies located in medical complexes, where he also provided pharmaceutical services to multiple nursing homes in the area. In addition to his professional success, Donald was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Boone Park Board, the Boone School Board, the Country Club Board, and was an active member of the Elks, Shriners, Lions Club, and the Masons. He was also elected to serve as President of the Iowa Elks in 1982.

 A passionate golfer, Donald spent much of his free time on the course, competing in tournaments and playing with his sons. He also enjoyed playing cribbage and telling stories, creating memories with friends and family that will be cherished forever.

In retirement, Donald and Donna moved to Denver, CO, to be closer to some of their grandchildren. They spent their winters in Sun City, AZ, and each summer, they returned to their lake cabin in Northern MN, where Donald found peace and joy.

 Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Goldie Hoff Tucker and Lee Tucker. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Donna, their four children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

 In accordance with Donald’s wishes, no formal services will be held. The family plans to hold a Celebration of Life in the summer of 2025, with his ashes to be scattered over the lake in Northern Minnesota, a place that held so many special memories for him.

Donald’s legacy of love, service to his family, and dedication to his community will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 Memorials are preferred to NDSU Sudro Society Pharmacy Program, an alumni run program that directly supports pharmacy students, technology, and advancement initiatives in the School of Pharmacy. Donations can be made through the following link: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/50452/donations/