June 12 1944 October 14 2020
William J. “Bill” Tucker passed away October 14 in a local hospital following a catastrophic heart attack. He was born in Pomona, raised in Covina and lived in Riverside and Visalia before settilng in Benicia 23 yeas ago. A three sport athlete in high school, he attended LaVerne College on an athletic scholarship, but left college to travel in Europe for a year. There he taught himself to play the guitar, which he continued to play for school children, churches, friends, and families for the rest of his life. After Europe, Bill enlisted in the Navy (1966-1968), married, and graduated from California State University, Los Angeles. Drawn to helping young people, he joined the Riverside County Probation Department, Juvenile Division where he rose to the rank of Chief Deputy Probation Officer. He was recognized for initiating innovative treatment programs for young women and for promoting positive restorative justice approaches for young people. He was a Little League coach, a member of Kiwanis Club, a Benicia Bocce player, an American Legion member and a supporter of Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. He is survived by Sharon, his wife of more than 53 years; daughter Allison Leigh (David) Grumio; son Jason William (Lori Gentry); brother James Norman Tucker; nieces and nephew Lilli, Jimmy and Patti; great-nephew Richard Lyon; and Bill’s only granddaughter, Isadora Marguerite Grumio. Due to the current environment, services will be held at a later date. The family prefers that any donations be made in his name be sent to Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, (arflife.org). To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of William J. “Bill” Tucker please visit our Sympathy Store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of William J “Bill Tucker June 12 1944 October 14 2020.
Death notice for the town of: Benicia, state: California
My condolences to Sharon, Alison, Jay, family and friends. Bill will be missed…he was a good human, a great friend and it was always a pleasure to to see him.
What a sad day it is when we lose someone like Bill. I considered him to be a good friend. He will be missed. My best to you Sharon.