Palatine, Illinois - Dennis L. "Tuck" Tucker, 78, peacefully passed away on 6/25/2026 in his home in Palatine, Illinois. He was surrounded by beloved family members. He had tackled his cancer diagnosis with grace and fortitude. He leaves behind his wife, Diane (Hunt) Tucker, his sister (Frances Helms), and bother (Steven Tuckers) as well as a beloved sister-in-law (Gena Tucker). He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews Greg Helms, Jeff Helms, Joshua Tucker, Kolby Tucker, Pam (Helms) Viles and Brook (Body) Stainthorpe, their spouses, his 7 great-nieces and -nephews, their spouses and children.

Born on December 26, 1947 in Joplin, Missouri to Dean and Katherine Faye (Rohn) Tucker. Raised on McConnell Avenue where he had a joyous youth messing about outside with his friend "Smitty" and helping his mom in the garden. Where he developed his lifelong interest in food and animals. He attended John High School where he was active with the ROTC, an eventually completed his military service after completing college. He started college at Missouri Southern State College and transferred to Iowa State University, earning a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry. He received his MBA from Drake University, and continued his commitment to education by taking multiple post graduate classes in business at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. He was an avid golfer, and past time that taught him patience and joy over the years.

After working for more than twenty (20) years in various roles with several health care providers in Iowa, Illinois and Florida, Dennis reshifted his professional life to teaching, a calling that became one of the get passions of his life. He served as a professor of business and marketing strategy for Roosevelt University in Chicago and as an adjunct professor for National Louis University. He was dedicated to turning his student into adults and preparing them for real world responsibilities. He excelled in guiding them through a worldwide strategy simulation game where his students frequently ranked in the top 10%.

Tuck's generosity, humor and steadfast love enriched the lives of everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the students he inspired and the countless people whose lives were made better by his kindness.

A private memorial service will be held in Joplin, Missouri. Individuals wishing to honor Tuck may do so through a donation to the Joplin Humane Society, the source of all the "Sandy's" in his life.