John Robert Tucker, 70 of Salina, passed away Saturday, October 16, 2021.

John was born here in Salina on September 5, 1951, to Thomas Reed Tucker and Val Doris (Mattson) Tucker.

Born and raised in Salina, John graduated in 1969 from Salina High School.  He went on to attend Trinity International University, a conservative Bible-based college located in Deerfield, Illinois, earning a bachelor’s degree in history.

While in Illinois, John met the love of his life, Susan Elaine Berggren and swept her off her feet, marrying on December 1, 1973, in Moline, Illinois.  They later became proud parents of two fine boys: Christopher Paul Tucker and Matthew Keith Tucker.

Upon marrying, John and Susan returned to Salina where John’s work ethic was established.  He was hired at Western Auto that became the Advanced Auto Distribution center, where he remained loyal to the company for 46 years, John not only was known for his strong work ethic, but he was also deeply involved in his church.  John was a member of the Salina Bible Church where he taught Sunday school for many years.  He had a strong belief and understanding of the Bible, which he employed in instructing children and young adults in the scriptures.  Additionally, He was a leader for the AWANA program for many years. In 2008 John became a member of the First Covent Church in Salina, where he was a proud and valued member of the choir.

There are too many sides and aspects of John’s character and personality.  From being an avid coin and postal stamp collector, to his love of professional sports teams, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and Kansas State University. 

Most importantly, John was a man of honor, integrity, with devotion to his family, his church and to every aspect of his life.  As with John’s various interest, John never wavered, never doubted. He consistently strove to model Christ’s love in all his endeavors and to all he met.

John went to be with our Lord and Saviour on Saturday, October 16, 2021, preceded by his dearest family members; his beloved parents; Thomas R. and Val Doris Tucker, and his sister; Sharyl Tucker-Shank-Cavin.

Those left to lovingly remember John are his cherished and loved family; John’s beloved wife of 48 years; Susan Elaine, John’s two dear sons; Christopher Paul Tucker and his wife Stella, of Irvine, CA., and Matthew Keith Tucker of Salina, brother; Thomas R. Tucker of Choctaw, OK, his 3 adorable grandchildren; Francesca Faye Tucker, Bjorn Kanan Tucker and Patrick Ezekiel Tucker.

Visitation will be Friday, October 22, 2021, with the family present from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, at the Roselawn Heights Memorial Chapel, 1920 East Crawford, Salina.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30am, Saturday, October 23, 2021, at the First Covenant Church, 2625 E. Magnolia Rd, Salina.

Interment will take place immediately following the funeral service at Roselawn Memorial Park, 1920 E. Crawford, Salina.

Memorials may be made to the family in care of Roselawn Mortuary, PO Box 2322, Salina, 67402.