Robert Leonard Tucker Sr., long-time resident of Benton Kansas, passed away on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the age of 83 from complications of surgery.

Robert is survived by his son, Robert L Tucker Jr (Carlene) of Wichita, his daughter Melody C Tucker of Benton, grandchildren, Kahle (Tucker) Fielder (Kermit) of Benton, Bridget Tucker of Wichita, and his sister Ruth Bertino, many nieces and nephews and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Lula May (Kahle) Tucker, father, Roy C Tucker, mother, Buella R (Jack) Tucker, brothers Roy Tucker, Paul Tucker, Lawrence Tucker, and sisters, Elaine Stocton, Vicky Salisbury, and Esther Smith.

Robert was born in Wichita Kansas on November 26, 1941.  He was married to Lula on November 30, 1962, in Council Grove by Pastor Sackerly in a small ceremony.

Robert met Lula in 1960 when a buddy introduced him to Lula's brother Ernie Kahle. While hanging out in town with Ernie, they noticed a group of young ladies when Robert declared, "I'll take that one!".  And Ernie exclaimed, "that's my sister!".  That was the start of a 60-year romance.  Their lives together came with many trials and many blessings. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother.  Family friends were always made to feel welcome, and they got to listen to him tell his favorite stories (and probably more than once).

His dedication to God and the Pentecostal church was a blessing to him and those around him.  Enjoying the farmer's life, he enjoyed watching chickens and his daughter's horses, and listening to blue grass and country music, especially that of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline.  Among his leisure activities were watching Westerns and Sci-Fi films.  Being an expert marksman, he was always eager to practice his quick draw.  His main interest, besides his family, was tuning up and racing his hot rods and classic cars, especially 57 Chevys and Corvettes.  He will be deeply missed.

Graveside Service will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 30th, at the Maplewood Memorial Lawn, 2000 Prairie, Emporia, Kansas 66801

Baker Funeral Home Valley Center - Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com