Chester “Chet” Tucker, Jr., 81, of Catonsville, MD, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, at his home in Charlestown Retirement Community, surrounded by love and his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Tucker, Sr. and Dorothy Tucker (née Sabella).
He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Susan Tucker (née MacDonald); and his beloved children:
Jamie Tucker (Laurie), Beth Zentz (Rick), Suzi Tucker, Erin Tucker (Joe), and Katie Ficca.
He was the cherished Pappy of:
Abbie Ohlin (Ryan), Brendan Tucker (Ryann), Molly Tucker, Kevin Tucker, Riley Edwards (Alex), Caroline Zentz, Casey Zentz, Sophie Harris, Cora Belle Hargadon, Willow Hargadon, Lilly Ficca, Nina Ficca, and Joey Ficca; and proud great-grandfather to Adley Ohlin.
He is also survived by his loving sisters:
Sheila Shields, Sue Jourdan, and Sheri Clark.
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Chet was known for his deep love of family, unwavering loyalty, and remarkable work ethic. He dedicated 42 years to a single company—Grinnell Fire Protection—where he was deeply respected by colleagues. His career success came not from degrees, but from integrity, diligence, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
Above all, Chet prioritized his family. He was home for dinner, present at every game and recital, and there for every milestone. After retiring at 60, he and Susan traveled to favorite destinations including Kauai, Palm Springs, and—most especially—Lake Tahoe.
His love for Susan was the foundation of everything. Even in his final days, when words had left him, he puckered his lips for her kisses—a small gesture that spoke volumes of their enduring bond.
Chet was a master storyteller, with a memory for names and moments, and a rare ability to make others feel seen and remembered. His stories—funny, heartfelt, and abundant—will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Though we mourn the space he leaves behind, we are filled with gratitude for the life he lived and the love he gave—a love that continues to echo through generations.
A life well lived. A heart always open.
We were so lucky to call him Husband, Dad, and Pappy.
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A Celebration of Chet’s Life
- Memorial Gathering
Friday, June 20, 2025
6:00–8:00 PM
Candle Light Funeral Home
1835 Frederick Road, Catonsville, MD 21228
- Second Memorial Gathering & Mass
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Gathering: 9:00–10:00 AM
Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 AM
Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church
711 Maiden Choice Lane, Catonsville, MD 21228
- Burial will take place at a later date.
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Whether you knew him as family, friend, neighbor, colleague, or came to know him through the lives of his children or grandchildren, we invite you to join us—to grieve, to laugh, to share, and to remember Chet, a man who made all our lives brighter.
Donations in Chet’s memory may be made to:
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105
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