Obituary of John R. Tucker

John "Jack" Tucker, 78, of Five Mile River Road, Putnam, died unexpectedly Friday morning at the Day Kimball Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Carol (Weston) Tucker. He was born in Montclair, NJ, son of Howard Charles and Ruth (Cote) Tucker. Jack had worked for over 35 years, at Pratt and Whitney where he was a supervisor in the Welding Department. He served with the US Navy. A member of the Putnam Congregational Church, serving on several committees including the Trustees, he was a member of the Church choir for many years. Jack was a member of the board of the Putnam Cemetery Association. After retiring from Pratt and Whitney in 1987 he worked part-time at the Midtown Fitness in Putnam. He enjoyed playing Dart Ball with the church team. His greatest love was his grandchildren and spending time with them. He leaves his wife Carol, two sons: Scott LaForest and his wife Lynn of Marble, NC; Bradley LaForest and his wife Marisa of Buxton, ME; four daughters: Lorna Tarr of Pomfret; Lynn Almquist of Florida; Lori Shipuleski of Avon; Leslie Andert of Georgia; a brother: Alan Tucker of North Grosvenordale; several grandchildren including Maxwell, Lucas, Amy, Weston, Katherine; a nephew: Gregory Tucker of Thompson; and great grandchildren. A graveside service will be Thursday, July 31st at 11:00 AM in Putnam Heights Cemetery, Liberty Highway, Putnam with military honors. Jack gave the gift of live through organ donation. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Putnam Congregational Church Memorial Fund, PO Box 463, Putnam, CT 06260 or Hospice of NECT, PO Box 632, Putnam, CT Arrangements by Smith & Walker Funeral Home, to share a memory with Jack's family "Light a Candle" at www.smithandwalkerfh.com