John Rucker

Long-time Tulsa resident John L. Rucker, 66, passed from this life to the next on December 1, 2013, after a long battle against lymphoma. A well-known local businessman, John was born in Sapulpa, OK, but spent his life in Tulsa. By his family, he was affectionately known as Bop. John attended Bishop Kelley High School, where he reconnected with Linda Covington, the love of his life, who became his wife. They were married for 47 years. In 2007, John and Linda were inducted into the Bishop Kelley Hall of Fame in honor of their many contributions to the school. John lived life to the fullest. He extended himself to anyone in need and had hundreds of friends from all walks of life. The John L. Rucker Company, a building cleaning and maintenance company, was established in 1965. It is known and widely used throughout the Tulsa business community. In addition, the eponymous John Rucker is equally celebrated for his philanthropy, particularly for his support for Meals on Wheels, where every week he would personally deliver food, and San Miguel, a Catholic middle school for English language learners. One of John’s hobbies was collecting and refurbishing old cars and trucks. Because he needed space to house his collections he maintained a warehouse that he named the “Dubya”. It became such a Tulsa phenomenon that many people asked to have parties and other events there. Invariably, he waived all fees when events by a charitable organization were held. John’s death occurred on the same date as that of his mother-inlaw, Helen Covington, whom he considered a loyal friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Bernadine Rucker, and his brother Larry Rucker. Besides his wife, survivors include his brothers Jim and Doug Rucker. He also leaves behind his four children: Bode and his wife, Kellie, of Tulsa, Tim and his wife, Jennifer, of New York City, Matthew (Bubba) and his wife, Crystal, of Luray VA, and Maggie Tims and her husband, Brian, of Tulsa. His grandchildren include Hudson, 13, Roan, 6, Oliver, 11, Lily, 6, Allison, 19, Covington, 17, Emma, 15, and Jack, 13. John leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, loyalty, and generosity. True to his generous nature, John donated his body to Oklahoma University for research. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Meals on Wheels or San Miguel. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 1 pm, Wednesday, December 4, 2013 at Christ the King Church, located at 16th Street and South Quincy, Tulsa. FITZGERALD IVY CHAPEL 918-585-1151