Wayne Howard Tucker

Wayne Tucker, age 93, died on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at his home in rural Barnesville, MN under the care of his children and HIA Hospice.

Visitation will be at St. James United Church of Christ, Barnesville on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at St. James United Church of Christ in Barnesville, MN with Rev. John Werner officiating. Burial will be in Rosemound Cemetery, Barnesville.

Wayne Howard Tucker, a beloved son, husband, father, and friend, was born on October 21, 1931, to Earl and Marie (Haberle) Tucker in Fargo, North Dakota. He grew up on the family farm north of Barnesville, Minnesota, where he developed a strong work ethic and a profound connection to the land. Wayne attended country school before graduating from high school in Barnesville in 1950. Following his graduation, he dedicated himself to farming alongside his father and brother, Stanley.

Wayne's commitment to serving his country and was drafted in the U.S. Army, where he served honorably from 1953 to 1955. After completing his service, he returned to the family farm, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey in agriculture. With his remarkable mechanical skills, he could fix just about anything, showcasing his resourceful nature. From 1964 to 1968, Wayne worked as a mechanic at the Oscar Johnson Allis Chalmers Implement in Barnesville, before joining Henry Brothers Construction and Heavy Equipment from 1968 to 1973.

On October 30, 1971, Wayne married his beloved Bonnie Mae Christensen, and together they shared a life filled with love and partnership. After returning to farming, Wayne persevered through the challenges of the farm crisis, adapting by working with EW Wylies and later TranSystems, where he transported sugar beets until his retirement in 1998.

Wayne's quiet strength and resilience were evident as he continued to contribute to the family farm, often seen working alongside K.W., Wes Christensen, and his son, Darrin. At the age of 92, he was still active, combining beans and corn and preparing fields last fall. He cherished moments spent with others, enjoying the camaraderie of the Rollag Steam Threshers Reunion, Potato Days, and the Clay County Fair. A regular at the Eagle Café in Barnesville, he savored his morning breakfasts and coffee while enjoying the company of friends and neighbors. In the winter time, there was always a jigsaw puzzle on the table to be worked upon.

In the final decade of Bonnie’s life, Wayne epitomized devotion and love as her caregiver. In 2024, he had the honor of participating in an Honor Flight, a moment he described as the "Trip of a lifetime," treasured not only for the memories created but also for being his first airplane ride at the age of 93. Always ready to lend a helping hand to his family, Wayne's selflessness knew no bounds. His affection for animals was evident when he unexpectedly brought home a puppy named "Buddy" 15 months ago, sharing his warmth and love through countless gestures of kindness.

Wayne Howard Tucker leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and dedication. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Wayne is survived by one daughter La Rae Tucker, and one son Darrin (Ashley) Tucker; grandchildren: Tyler (Nikky) Nelson, Trevor (Alyssa Halvorson) Nelson, Wyatt, and Ella Tucker; great grandchildren; one brother-in-law Wesley (Etta Mae) Christensen; and sister-in-law Janice Christensen. Also surviving Wayne are several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by wife Bonnie in 2016, and daughter Deanna Ingebretson in 2020, and brother Stanley.