October 13, 2023
In loving memory ~
Donna Louise Tucker, age 79, passed peacefully with her family surrounding her, on October 13, 2023, following a short illness. She was predeceased by her husband Fran in 2007. Donna is survived by her children Barbara, Connie and D'Eric (Julie), her grandchildren Jevon, Cassandra, Jenessa, Alexis and Kaylen (and their significant others), and two great-grandsons Kade and Elias.
Mom was born in Saskatchewan and was the middle child of 5. She often regaled us with stories of her younger years. Mom talked fondly of her time spent at Aunt Florence's, tinkering on the truck with her dad, carrying water to the house with her mom, her first job as a Nanny to the local Doctor's family, and the weekend dances that her parents played at. She met Fran in her early teens, and they married in 1961. Their life together was full of adventures! Dad would often start the new venture, and Mom would then end up running the show. From raising us kids, to running the ranch, birthing the calves, feeding the hundreds of cattle, and caring for the Emus. It was not uncommon to see mom walking in from the field with the calf pullers over her shoulder. Her nurturing nature touched all of us. Her gardens flourished, and she took pride in her lawns. She would often bow out of excursions with the excuse of "I need to cut the lawn". She obsessed about having her hair done, and was always put together when she left the house. Our childhood was full of love, home baked treats, Taster's Choice coffee, and conversations around the dining table. Our home was always open to all family and friends. The coffee was on and hours were spent chatting. She was full of advice to any that asked, and also to those that didn't. Her loyalty and love for those closest to her was endless and her family was her pride and joy. She enjoyed having the grandchildren stay over the summer and filled their time with horses, swimming, sand piles and sewing.
Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's a few years ago and had lost parts of herself. Fortunately for us, she kept her sassy wit right to the very end. She would often say, "I've lived a good life", which is a wonderful testament to a life well lived.
Mom will be laid to rest with Fran at the Hillside Cemetery in Kamloops, BC. We will hold a Celebration of Life in the Spring, date to be announced. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.