Roland E. Tucker, a.k.a. Grandpa Fix-it was born November 7, 1937, in Asheville, North Carolina, to Roland E. Tucker and Myrtle Mae Jenkins. He passed away November 9, 2026, just two days after celebrating his 89th birthday.
Roland graduated from Westport High School with the Class of 1957, where he enjoyed playing basketball. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country.
Roland began his working career repairing adding machines and typewriters for Remington Rand. He later attended aviation mechanic school, which led him to a career he truly loved. He went on to work for the Air Force Reserve Command, 442nd Fighter Wing, at Richards-Gebaur and Whiteman Air Force Bases, where he remained until his retirement in 1997. He took great pride in his work and especially treasured the many friendships he made throughout his years of service.
Retirement didn't mean slowing down for Roland. He had a love for adventure and travel, making the memorable road trip to Alaska not once, but twice, countless trips to West Virginia and Colorado! He also spent a summer working at Yellowstone National Park, enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. One of his favorite ways to spend his time was in his workshop, where he devoted countless hours making special items for his children and grandchildren. Those handmade treasures will remain lasting reminders of his love and thoughtfulness.
After returning from military service in the Army, Roland married and began his family, welcoming two daughters, Penny (Tim) Borel and Karen (George) Murray. He later married Doris Tucker, and together they welcomed two sons, Roland Michael Tucker and Bruce (Andrea) Tucker.
Family was an important part of Roland's life. He was blessed with seven grandchildren: Tucker (Ashlee) Borel, Timothy Borel, Jacques Borel, Anatoliy Murray, Elmira Murray, Alexandra (Paxton) Hitchings, and Madison Tucker. He was also the proud great-grandfather of three: Theo Borel, Natalie Murray, and Brodie Hitchings.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Harold Curtis; his wife, Doris Tucker; and his son, Roland Michael Tucker.
Roland's life was one of service, hard work, adventure, and, most importantly, family. His love will live on through the generations, in the memories shared, the friendships he made, and the many things he lovingly created with his own hands.
Pallbearers will be Tucker Borel, Timothy Borel, Jack Borel, Paxton Hitchings, Bruce Tucker, Toli Murray, Tim Borel, and George Murray.
In lieu of flowers, a charity of choice may be considered.
