Roll Call Tribute

(Pubished in) Longview News-Journal (on) January 26, 2018

Michael Tucker

Michael Tucker
LONGVIEW, TEXAS — Michael Edwin Tucker of Longview passed away on January 23, 2018, at the age of 62 after a battle with cancer. He was born May 25, 1955, in El Paso, Texas, to William Marshall and Nellie (Nancy) Tucker. He is survived by his wife, Gretchen Tucker, and son, Christopher Tucker, both of Longview; parents, William and Nancy, of San Antonio; brother, Dave, of Memphis, TN; sister, Pam, of San Antonio; and brother, Garry, of San Antonio.

Michael grew up in an Air Force family and lived in El Paso; Albany, Georgia; Rantoul, Illinois; and San Antonio, where he graduated from Judson High School. He attended Texas A&M, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets, appointed as Commanding Officer of Company N-1, and elected as a member of the prestigious Ross Volunteers. As a member of the A&M Class of ‘77, he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology with a focus on civil construction.

After graduation, Michael received a commission in the United States Marine Corps. His service was highlighted by high marks and letters of commendation from the Marine Corps.

After fulfilling his duty in 1981, Michael moved to Longview, Texas, to begin a career in the private sector. In 1982 he founded Transet Company along with partner Mike Smith. What started as a modest two-man operation grew to become the largest general contracting / construction management firm in Northeast Texas. Michael’s professional success can be attributed to his drive, discipline, consistency, intellect, humility, and loyalty to his company, employees, and clients. The impact he made on the community through his work is immeasurable - the quantifiable millions of square feet of construction will only be part of his legacy.

Michael participated generously in many philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to LeTourneau University, for which he was a longtime contributor toward student scholarships and sponsorship of Belcher Center performances.

In his personal time, for many years, he enjoyed boating on his custom 40’ cigarette boat, “Radical Ride”, and in recent years enjoyed the slower pace of his pontoon boat and kayaks. A natural athlete, he was a gifted golfer and basketball player.

In recent years, he and Gretchen enjoyed spending time at their vacation home in Southwest Florida with family and friends.

Above all, Michael was most proud of his relationships with family and with those who knew they could count on him. One of his proudest accomplishments was being able to continue his legacy at Transet Company with Christopher.

The family wishes to thank the physicians and staff of Texas Oncology in Longview. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to LeTourneau University.

Michael will be remembered and dearly missed as a father, son, husband, brother, and friend.

There will be a memorial service held on Friday, February 2, at 3:00pm, at the Foyer of the Belcher Center.