Merlin Daniel Tucker

Merlin Daniel “Dan” Tucker, 84, of Rockne, entered the Kingdom of Heaven on November 1st, 2016. Born in Smithville, TX on August 13th, 1932, he was the son of Elsie and Josie Weaver. Dan was blessed with a large and loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Margie Bartsch Tucker, sons and daughters-in-law, Ricky Tucker, David & Karen Tucker, Ronnie & Brenda Tucker, Timothy & Lisa Tucker, and Gary Tucker, all of Rockne, Texas. Papa Dan is lovingly remembered by his 18 grandchildren and their spouses: Rachel & Dave Major, Raina & David Ellis, Reba & Tommy King, Lance & Codie Tucker, Landry & Jenny Tucker, Logan Tucker, Stephen Tucker, Jessica Tucker, Mike & Heather Tucker, Matt & Jackie Tucker, Marshall Tucker, Josh & Cortney Tucker, Colton Tucker, Samuel Tucker, Gregory Tucker, Kevin Tucker, Jeremy & Susie Tucker, and Scott Tucker; his 19 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Dan grew up in Smithville, Texas and joined the United States Army at age 18 and served for 3 years. Dan is a veteran of the Korean War, where he earned medals, including a Purple Heart, Korean Service Medal, U.N. Service Medal and a Distinguished Unit Citation. While serving his country, Dan fell in love with Margie Nell Bartsch. After an honorable discharge in August of 1953, they were married 6 months later on February 13, 1954. They raised their 5 boys in Rockne, Texas. He worked for Chatleff Controls for 43 years as a machinist. He was a commander of the VFW Post 2527, a boy scout leader, and he coached the first Little League Baseball team in Rockne, the Rockne Roosters, as well as the CYO baseball teams. Dan enjoyed being the master of ceremonies for many local events. He had a passion for music and he enjoyed singing with his band, Dan Tucker and the Swingsters. He continued singing throughout his life. Dan modeled God’s love best by the love he showed his family. This love was his greatest legacy. Rosary - 7:00 p.m. November 3, 2016 and Funeral - 10:30 a.m. November 4, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rockne