by Katie Orlando

HUNTERSVILLE – Former town commissioner, Santa Claus extraordinaire and active community member Ron Tucker died at his home May 3.

Tucker served on the Huntersville town board from 1995 to 1997. One of his highest priorities as commissioner was Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville.

“He fought long and hard to get Presbyterian Hospital here,” Huntersville Commissioner and friend Charles Guignard said. “Can you imagine us not having Presbyterian Hospital here?”

As a commissioner, Guignard said, Tucker did his best to be fair and look at all sides of decisions affecting the town.

Tucker donned his top-to-bottom Santa Claus suit for many years and many activities, not just in town. He was even known to rearrange his schedule so Boy Scouts wouldn’t have to go without a visit from Santa.

Tucker’s town involvement didn’t end after his tenure as commissioner.

“He was a big advocate of Angels of ’97 and all that means to the community,” Guignard said.

Angles of ’97 Memorial Scholarship Organization has provided nearly $450,000 to local high school students for higher education in honor of five students from the North Mecklenburg High class of ’97 who died before graduating.

Former Mayor Kim Phillips asked Tucker to keep Memorial Day celebrations at Birkdale active when she stepped down in 2007. Tucker served as master of ceremonies and helped keep the event growing ever since.

“He loved this town as much as anyone,” Guignard said.

His local loyalty also manifested in an interest in a sport with strong regional ties.

“He had a lot of friends that he talked to about their NASCAR favorites that will sorely miss him,” Guignard said.

Tucker, who police say took his own life, was born June 21, 1951, in Forsythe County.

His father, the Rev. Roger Tucker, moved the family every four to five years as a Methodist minister, leaving Tucker with friends in many towns and states.

Survivors include Tucker’s wife Winnie Tucker; sister, Jenny McClary and husband, Earl, of Mooresville; sister-in-law Kathy Davis; nieces Diane and Mary Katherine; and nephews, Kevin and Everett.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 12, at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Wade Ogle officiating.

Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 6320 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte NC 28216.

To pay repects

Trinity United Methodist Church, 6320 Beatties Ford Road

Saturday, May 12, 11 a.m.