Tim Tucker Outdoors Bass Sessions

Posted by: Richard & Kathy Barker
Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure...you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure...

Posted by: Jim H.
I never met Tim nor have I ever heard of him or read any of his writings, prior to Monday July 16th. I was traveling northbound on I-75 on Monday July 16 when I drove by the accident sight only minutes after it happened. I could tell the accident was serious. I saw Tim's vehicle and I saw Tim in his vehicle. My heart sank, I said a prayer for him and his family. That night I read about the accident on the internet, that mentioned Tim's name and became intrigued about Tim. We are all constantly reminded of how precious life is, how important family is, and how we should never take one moment for granted. To the family of Tim: I will continue to pray for you and I have faith God will give you all the courage and strength you need I'm truly saddened and sorry for your loss and sorry I never knew Tim God Bless!!

Posted by: Vann and Kris Ross
We did not know Tim, but we know Shirley Davis and her family, Mary Greeson and her family, and Mrs. Doris Tucker VERY well. They are a very loving Christian family and our hearts go out to them and the rest of Tim's family at this time. Our hearts are reaching out to you in sympathy and prayer, May God Bless and comfort you as only He can during these difficults days. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Vann and Kris Ross, and Family Lake Worth, Florida

Posted by: Bo Bain

The fishing world has lost a true freind, but heaven has welcomed him home

Posted by: Brittney Maddox

Mr. Tucker, you will forever be remembered. The kids, parents and fans of the baseball team in Micanopy have truly lost an amazing person but I know you will be in heaven looking down, coaching and cheering them on.

Posted by: Irene Thomas

I met Tim and his wife when Kyle and Rachel went to Vacation Bible School at Cross Creek Baptist. I know his Mom from the church. My prayers are with all of the family. Irene Thomas

Posted by: Lee Wheeler

I wrote a little remembrence to Tim on my web site at leewheeler.com. although, I never met him, he touched my life in more ways than one.

Posted by: Julie Bailey

There are so many of us who loved, admired and respected Tim and who feel deeply the pain and grief Darlene, Rachel, Kyle and family are experiencing. Tim was not only an icon in the outdoors media world, but he was also a trusted, generous, loving friend. I was truly blessed with his friendship and the profound impact of Tim's life and of his passing will not fade. You're probably up there already writing Secrets of Heaven's Best Bass Pros and lining up interviews, Tim. Just send them down and I'll get them back to you asap. "Love never disappears for death is a non-event. I have merely retired to the room next door. You and I are the same; what we were for each other, we still are. Life means what it has always meant. The link is not severed. Why should I be out of your soul if I am out of your sight?" St. Augustine

Posted by: Billy & Chappy Chapman

As we all know how great of a writer Tim was, he was a better freind. We will all miss him and our prayers are with him and his family. Anglers Inn sends our reguards to his family. May God bless his soul.

Posted by: Lisa McDowell Snuggs - SEOPA

On behalf of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association, which served as Tim's "family" of outdoor communicators since 1982, I offer heartfelt condolences to Darlene, Kyle and Rachel, and to all who loved and admired Tim. Personally, I will never forget his kind spirit, his quick wit and his ever-ready chuckle.

Posted by: Richard Simms

I only met Tim a few times. But I've followed his illustrious career with envy. He will be missed.

Posted by: Kurt Beckstrom

Tim Tucker was one-of-a-kind. Not only a great writer and angler, but an upstanding man anyone would be proud to call "friend." I have a number of good memories of times we spent in a boat, or visiting at some function or another, but what I'll remember most are our phone conversations, which almost always ended with a discussion about our kids. Tim was so happy when the twins were born, and so proud of each new accomplishment as they grew up. His love for his kids beamed brightly with every word. He was a good man.

Posted by: Glynn Harris

I usually only saw Tim once a year at SEOPA conference. Yet, he was always one member I really looked forward to getting to visit with again. I'd be greeted with a rough-edged grin, a handshake and the inevitable question..."Did you bring Kay with you?" I have had the privilege of getting to know so many of our SEOPA members over the years. While I crossed paths with some throughout the year between conference, the big old bewhiskered teddy bear I only saw once a year worked his way into my heart to the extent that he has been on my mind constantly since I learned of his tragic death. Tim Tucker was a workhorse for SEOPA, an organization he genuinely loved. He always stood his ground on behalf of SEOPA. Our group is known for it's "warm and fuzzy" feeling among members. As straight forward as he could be when the situation called for it, Tim's crowning characteristic to me was the warmth and tenderness that was his heart. If anybody in our group exemplified "warm and fuzzy", it had to be Tim. God bless you Darlene, Kyle and Rachel. What a wonderful legacy your husband/dad has left you.

Posted by: Robert Fulton (River Geezer)

Tim could tell a good story and enjoyed hearing one. We in the outdoor writing community will miss him.

Posted by: Larry Rea

Tim was one of the first people that contacted me after I became outdoors editor of The Commercial Appeal in Memphis in 1988. I'll never forget what he told me -- Be Larry Rea, Not Henry Reynolds. You are who you are. And that's the way I'll always remember Tim. He was who he was. A mentor and friend to many.

Posted by: Brent Callicott - Union City Tennessee

I was very lucky to have met Tim back in 2004 at the Strike King Outdoor Writer Deal at Reelfoot Lake. I was able to sit down and talk with Tim for about 20 minutes that evening and one I will never forget. May GOD be with the family at this very difficult time in their lives. May God Bless..

Posted by: Monte & Joan Burch

Tim and I were some of the first professional bass fishing writers. We met numerous times at fishing competitions, boat/motor reviews and other outdoor events. Even as serious writing competitors, we enjoyed each other's company. On the professional side, I always admired Tim's writing integrity. I didn't get to know him as well personally as I would have liked. We were both too busy working. Our prayers are with you.

Posted by: John Dunnavant Jr

I had the chance to meet Tim Tucker when I was 12 yrs old. Now I am 36 and I fish the Bassmasters Weekend Series and The Southern Opens. I didn't understand the impact that his kind words would have on me until years later. I told him that I wanted to be a Bass Pro! His response stuck with me for a lifetime he told me "never let go of a dream and to get as much experience that I could" Then he asked me if I was a member of BASS. Well I joined that day and have been a member every since.I will miss Tim a great deal because he had a way of talking to people and a respect that alot of people have learned a great deal from. Great people come once in a lifetime and they broke the mold with Tim Tucker. He was and still is a legend in the Sport and always will be. My deepest condolences go out to the Tucker family. Thank you Tim for steering a fellow into an awesome sport. I will miss you my friend. P.S. You have my permission to print this if you wish. I believe people should know how great Tim Tucker really was.

Posted by: Jim Wilson

I first met Tim the first year I became amember of FOWA in 1984- the year he was president. The next year I started my TV show and one of my most memorable nights at a FOWA conference was Tim impersonating Ray Charles. I wish I still had the video!!! We will miss him and pass our condolences to you Darlene and your boys. Jim Wilson

Posted by: Rob Thames

Tim Tucker will truly be missed. Everyone knows Tim for his timeless work as a bass fishing journalist. Tim's work will live forever. Tim created the blueprint for how bass fishing should be covered by the media. What everyone may not know is that Tim was a very kind and giving man. When I built and launched my bass fishing website over a year ago I wanted the best professional outdoors journalist to review and critique my site. Tim was the first and only person I thought of. I emailed Tim briefly explaining myself and asked him to review my site and welcomed his suggestions and/or criticism. Tim was a very busy man and he did not know me from Adam, yet he took the time to review my site and offered his years of experience to help me. I will always remember Tim Tucker. I have experienced his work for years, and I was fortunate enough to experience the kindness of the man on a personal level. I know I said it before, Tim, but now I want to say it for everyone to read ... "Thank you, Tim." May you rest in peace. Rob Thames

Posted by: Larry Self

Tim was a mentor and more than that a friend. I'll never forget his insight and advice he gave me over the years. The time we spent smallmouth fishing will always be with me as well. My prayers are with hid family.

Posted by: Matt Davis

We all lost a great writer,friend and outdoorsman. Tim will never be forgotten. New Hampshire

Posted by: Steve McCadams

I will miss my friend and fellow outdoor writer as we worked together many times over the years. He was always smiling and witty, poking fun at me every chance he got. Tim was a hard worker and rose quickly to the top of the outdoor writing arena thanks to his great stories and photos from countless hours spent both in the field and in front of the computer. I'll miss him dearly and cherish those good times we had. The outdoor world has lost a great friend and journalist. Steve McCadams, fellow outdoor writer, Paris,TN

Posted by: Jeff Gueli- Sarasota,FL

Tim, thanks for all the info you provided for guys like me. Although I never met you, I feel like I have. See you in BASS heaven someday.

Posted by: Jason Howe

I may have only met Tim once in person. I have enjoyed and learned a bunch from his writings in numerous magazines and websites. He will be missed....

Posted by: Gregory Littles Sr.

My prayers and heartfelt condolences to the Tucker family. During this time and forever more know that You will be in my thoughts and heart always. Words are few at this time. May God keep you and bless you always. SFC Gregory Littles Sr.

Posted by: Chris

Thanks for the years of great memories. You'll be missed.

Posted by: Richard Ziert

I didn't know Tim personally. I do know what the grief of losing a loved one can do to those left with their memory. First ssk God in prayer for forgivness for your sins. Then give thanks that your prayers have been answered. Then, rejoice in the knowledge that "HE" will be with you always. Take care my friends. Rich

Posted by: Sammie Jo Denyes

A person knows the value of a friend, But sometimes to put it into words Seems useless as it truly does not express what is in ones heart. Though I was not a close friend of Tim's, I feel though i were after many years of reading his stories and interviews. And as part of the BASS family, he was family to me. I personally feel Tim isn't done writing his best story, he is in heaven writing the rest of the Story and that is the story of Bryan Kerchall. We will Miss you Tim and will always in our heart, know your value as a friend.

Posted by: glen hunter

i have so many great things we did together from writing a book together to being in many mag articles to speaking at functions he promoted.i felt tim was a really good friend and will greatly missed.i spend my summers in ca.and will unable to attend any services.but my prayers go out to the family.

Posted by: Rachel Tucker

My dad was a brilliant man. He tought me many things and he loved me. I know he's up in heaven watching over me! My dad told me 3 very importaint peices of advice. First he told me to never let go of a dream and get lots of expieriance. Second he told me to never let a man treat me worse than he did. Third and final he told me that no man will ever love me more than he does and that he loved me. Writing this is making me tear up a bit! Even though i've never realy gotten in to bass fishing i want to do more of it. (i'm not the most paicent person) I think that the world has lost a loving father, a friend, and a magnificent writer!!! so anyway i love my dad!!!!! Thank you for reading! Rachel PS you have permission to print this i want the world to know that Tim Tucker was the greatest man who ever lived and that he will greatly be missed. So anyway Thank you for all of your kind words and for your many prayers! They will be answered! Thank you for all of your support! We can't make it through this without you guys!!!!!! I love you all!! God bless all of you!!!!!! And many thanks!!! Rachel Tucker age 10 ( Tim's daughter)

Posted by: Sherry & Bubba Hodge

Going to see "Bocephus" with Tim and Darlene the day after Bubba and I were married....laughing with Tim over the years, and always receiving beautiful pics of the kids at Christmas. He will be so missed.

Posted by: Ms. Cheryl

Tim your spirit will walk the fields of the Micanopy ballpark for eternity. Your love for life is an inspiration to all of us. I am so fortunate to have finally had the pleasure to meet you. This community will embrace your family and love them. Thanks to you our lives have been enriched. God speed!

Posted by: The Beasley Family

time we will miss you. I promise to coach your children the best i can in soccer. I will love them as my own. I will forever miss you. Your smiling face at every soccer and baseball game will be forever remembered thru our family. Thank you for all the fishing tips you have given me. Love you and miss you Larry Beasley and Family

Posted by: Judy McElroy

Darlene & kids, I had the great pleasure of meeting Tim at a ball game in Micanopy and let me tell you he will be missed as a husband, father, coach and fan of all the kids in Micanopy. Please note that if I can do anything just let me or Nancy Sanders know.

Posted by: Chuck Faremouth

The one thing that I will always remember about Tim was his desire to get it right and how persistent he could be to make sure he got the complete story, no matter how controversial. The Willow Leaf Spinner Bait article is a perfect example. I will miss a true friend. Chuck

Posted by: Johnny, Diane, Josh and Taylor Gebhardt

Darlene, Kyle and Rachel, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Tim was a great man whom we enjoyed at the ball park. He will be greatly missed. Everyone knows one of his greatest passion in life was his family. He never missed a game and was always there to offer any advise needed. He has a keen eye, seeing things from different angles that others couldn't. You will always be there, the spirit lives on forever and will be watching from the sky above. Take care Tucker. God bless this family.

Posted by: Clay Sanders

I am going to miss my Tucky! The thing we all loved about Tucker was that he was always nice and thoughtful. Sometimes Tucker was mad and sometimes he was playful but mostly playful. One time we went to Sports Authority and I had money and he wouldn't let me pay for my stuff, he wanted to pay for it. If a kid on the baseball team didn't have $ for a uniform Tucker would help out so he could play. Tucker was a loving, caring, thoughtful and a smart man. You would never find a man that loved children like Tucker did. He was always giving. I went over to Tucker's house the day after he died and when I saw he wasn't on his computer it just hurt me. When somebody so loving and caring that you are close to is not there, it just hurts inside knowing that your best friend is gone. Nothing ever upset Tucker unless someone was doing a kid wrong. Tucker was the best article writer and baseball coach. I will miss Tucker very much. Love to Darlene, Rachel & Kyle Tucker.

Posted by: Dawn Cepero

I met Tim in Alabama while waiting for my husband while he was pre fishing for a B.A.S.S. tournament. I had my daughter with me, at the time age 3 and my son, an infant. We were in a restaurant inside a hotel there in Alabama just off the lake where the tour was to be held. My daughter was so taken with him and kept going over and showing him the rocks she had found. He was like a big teddy bear. I felt so bad because here he was trying to eat breakfast and she kept bugging him. I apologized and we began talking. She was counting the rocks for him and laying them out and I remember him saying how smart she was to do so. She passed away not long after that from Leukemia at age 4 and I will always have that memory of how she lit up when she saw him. He was a teddy bear and asked me about my husband and we began to talk and I told him about my husband fishing with a blown engine. BASS did not have the engine he needed on the trailer to repair it, so he had to troll the area. He didn't do horribly either. Then, I told him what my husband had done previously with his family entertaining doing teder board and trapeze, grizzly and high wire and had come from Spain to join Ringling. He was stunned and couldn't wait to talk to him. We kept in touch once or twice over the past couple years via email after we lost our daughter, but I had not had the chance to see him again. I will never forget the smile and I will never forget my daughter's joy with him. God Bless the family and always Tim. Love, Dawn Cepero Caylee, our little girl who became buddies with him passed in March 05 and her memorial site is at www.cayleecepero.memory-of.com and I believe the article Time wrote about Lee is on Lee's website. I think I even have a picture of Tim, if not I will upload it.

Posted by: Keith Sutton

Ironically, I was fishing one of Tim's favorite bass lakes, El Salto in Mexico, when I learned of his passing. What a shock it was! Tim and I worked together many years in SEOPA. I came to admire him not only for his superb writing and photography skills, but for being a man who stood up for what he believed in and said what was on his mind when it needed saying. He offered me advice when I asked for it, gave me praise when I didn't deserve it and showed his friendship always. He was a dear friend to me and my wife Theresa, and Darlene is dear to us as well. Theresa and I will always have fond memories of this mountain of a man, and we'll keep all of you in our prayers.

Posted by: Sammie Jo Denyes

Rachel After reading your message, When the time is right for you and of course with your Mother's Permission, I would love to take you fishing. I live in Florida as well and Would be happy to take you.. My email is bassngirl31@aol.com God bless you and your family Sammie Jo Denyes

Posted by: F. B . C. Greenacres

Our prayers go out to you in your time of sorrow. May God grant you grace, comfort and peace. Pastor Ronnie

Posted by: Kemp family

Mr. Tucker, Thanks for all the great baseball memories and for beeing such a good person. We will miss you always! Thanks for always encouraging and believing in me ....."Tommy"

Posted by: Mark Thomas

What do you say about losing your best friend? I don't have the words and not been able to think about too much else. My friend and I grew apart for a myriad of reasons...and none worth it. I never got to meet his great kids or share a few laughs. What I did have was about 20 years of memories, but that isn't enough. To Darlene, God spirit and speed. You are a tough one...God doesn't give you anything you can't handle. To the kids, you Dad was everything you ever thought...and more Leave some of the fish for the rest of us in heaven, Tim....but have a great time waiting for us.

Posted by: Todd Windham

Tim was an outstanding writer and I enjoyed reading his outdoor writing. His articles have been very informative and I have learned a lot by trusting that Tim would not steer me wrong. I am going to miss reading his work. My prayers are with his family and friends. I bet he has just landed another ten pounder since I began writing this letter. God bless, Todd Windham Oxford, MS toddwindham@yahoo.com

Posted by: The Shaw Family

I had the pleasure of having breakfast with Tim in 1994 prior to the launch of the Bassmaster Classic competitors at High Rock, NC. He loved our sport and he loved talking to others that shared his passion. Our condolences to the Tucker family and the thousands of fisherpeople that considered Tim their friend. Rob Shaw

Posted by: Robert DeFord

You have inspired every childs dream to become a bass angler. YOU ARE THE LUNKER BASS OF US ALL

Posted by: Tasha and Wayne Smith

We will always remember his booming voice calling out in our baseball games-filled with love- and his wonderful hugs he gave our boys when they were upset or just because he loved them. We will all be better people for having known Coach Tucker. We will hold him in our hearts forever and his family in our prayers.

Posted by: Jerry Gerardi

Tim was a friend, editor and mentor to me. In his own toasted marshmallo way (crusty on the outside but soft in the middle) he helped me grow as a writer. For that I will always be grateful. He will be missed.

Posted by: Ron Klys

Tim was my best friend, my mentor, and as close to being my dad as anyone has gotten since I lost mine some years ago. He also coached me in the sponsership side of fishing. But more inportantly than mabe all of those things he set the mark on how to be a loving caring human being. It is only now that I am hereing the seeminly endless stories of his carring and compassion for others that he gave so unselflessly. I recently won a tournament where for some reason or another they were no trophys. When I told Tim he said "We'll just have to get you one." I just blew it off. After we learned of the horrible tradgidy on Monday, I was at Tim's house Tuesday and a box shows up in the mail. Darlene hands it to me and say's "that is probably something painful." She was absolutly right. Tim out of the kindness of his heart and bank account, had a trophy made for me winning that tournament. No tournament win ever will mean as much as that trophy does. And no words can describe what that plaugh means to me. from the trips across the country together to lake Seminole paying baseball with Tim,Darlene, Kyle, and Rachal, you allways had a sense that you were the most important thing to him and that he would do anything for you. and he did. I hope that one day I can live up to half of the man he was. He will be rembered, loved, and cherished forever.

Posted by: Todd Fulk

I spent two days in Florida with Tim and Shaw Grigsby (1993)trying to catch the biggest bass I had ever seen. When I saw Tim's death on TV I pointed to a picture on the wall in my house of me holding the fish with Shaw in the background. I told my son that Tim had taken that picture and it now is on the wall in our family room . Tim was very gifted and so nice to me. I told my wife he by far wrote the best articles about fishing than anyone I knew.

Posted by: Richard Borts

I did not know Tim Tucker very good,but I do know he was a great writer and valued his opinion,I just learned of his passing and am shocked,prayers go out to family and friends.

Posted by: Alton J

This was posted on smithlakebass.com with a nice picture of Tim. I've read his articles for years, and my thoughts and prayers to his family. Some stars burn bright and slowly fade away. Others burn at their brightest for years and then are quickly taken away from us. That was the case July 16, 2007, when "the" best outdoors writer in the country, Tim Tucker, was killed in an auto accident just miles from his home in Gainesville, Florida. Tim Tucker was a giant in the bass fishing world, just as he was a giant of a man in life. But his physical size was dwarfed by his ability at writing a quality, informative story on the outdoors and the bass fishing world. Tucker was a senior writer for Bassmaster Magazine and contributed hundreds of articles to similar releases. Tucker also had his own website, timtuckeroutdoors.com, where he made available to the fishing public his many books on bass fishing. He won hundreds of awards in photography and writing, and thought of by many as one of the best ambassadors there was in the sport of fishing. Tucker was one of the first that had the vision on teaching anglers how to be a good spokesman for their sponsors and offered a newsletter containing all the "how to’s" on being a good professional. One of Tucker’s many books, Secrets of Americas Best Bass Pros, can be found in fishing households throughout the country, including mine. Tucker was a friend to many, including Fairview’s Kimberlee Striker. The accompanying photo was taken by Striker on Tucker’s last visit to her salon while he was in the area for a Bassmaster tournament that was on Guntersville. "He told me he wanted the works and everything Swindle has done". "I don’t think he was expecting all the waxing" she said. "Tim always made time for a talk about fishing and was a close dear friend. He always left you laughing and wanting more time with him because he was just plain fun" said Striker. Tim Tucker befriended just about every angler he came in contact with. He was the man every professional wanted to see coming their way. Simply because when Tucker did a piece on an angler, they knew everyone in the bass fishing world would be reading it. Since Tim’s untimely death, there have been many articles written about a writing legend. There have been many people telling stories that haven’t been told until now. There will surely be awards given out in his namesake. But nothing will compare when it comes to the loss that the outdoors world has fallen on. Tim Tucker will be sorely missed by his family, friends and fans. But just as in life, I’m sure that Tim Tucker is sitting down right now, somewhere in a better place, with paper and pen in hand, just waiting on the next big story. Rex Chambers

Posted by: Greg Hackman

I never met Tim but always really respected the honesty and straight forwardness of his writing. As I said I never met Tim but whenever I emailed him with a question or comment I always knew a reply would be in my computer the next day. You are all in our daily prayers. God Bless You.

Posted by: Don Allphin

I remember Tim best sitting in the media center during the 2006 Bassmaster Classic wearing a bright Green Disney hat. My wife and I were able to spend a few quiet moments with Tim during each of the past several Classics. He was a gifted writer, and a true icon among outdoors writers. We will miss him.

Posted by: Luis Mellado (Claudia´s bro)

We love you Tuckers, Tim we will miss you but never forget you.

Posted by: Juanny Mellado

Me and my whole family will always think of you and will never forget your great sense of humor. My love to Darlene, Rachel and Kyle. Spending the time with you all was a great moment of my life. Kyle and Rachel, you had a great daddy...From wherever he is, he will be watching and taking care of you...always....

Posted by: Ken Burnette

Tim fished with me in the early 1980's as the sports writers had a big Fly Rod fishing tournament about every year at Lake Okeechobee...Even then he was already a Bass Master...As a rookie guide, I learned from him more than him from me....Since that time I read some of the great outdoors and fishing articles that he wrote. I enjoyed them and remembered our trip at Lake Okeechobee...He will be missed..........

Posted by: David Hagens

I have been struggling to find words how I feel since learning of this tragedy. As I have fished BASS events as a co-angler for many years I had the privilege of speaking to this giant of a man on many occasions. Giant not only in stature, but giant as a writer, as a fellow fisherman, as a friend. You are loved and missed by more people than you could imagine. God bless you, till we meet again

Posted by: Robert Alfano

Awhile back I was searching for some literature, and was having no luck in finding what I wanted. I E mailed Tim expecting an automated response, Tim got back with me pointing me in the right direction, this took several e-mails and some research on his part. This personal and helpfull response brought my attention to his work and helped make me an imediate fan. RIP Tim.

Posted by: Bernie Schultz

I first met Tim Tucker in the mid 1980s. He called me for an interview on a fishing article he had in mind. I agreed to meet with him at his home in West Palm Beach.

At the time Tim served as an outdoor writer for the Palm Beach Post. But this article was not intended solely for the newspaper. Through his association with fishing legend Roland Martin, Tim had developed a relationship with BASS Publications (publishers of Bassmaster Magazine). Roland, who was on top of the tournament scene, had opened a new marina on the southwestern shore of Lake Okeechobee. Responding to invitations from Roland, Tim made frequent trips there to develop how-to articles for Bassmaster Magazine's large readership. The pair made quite an impact, as Tim's articles became nearly as popular as Roland's persona among fishing enthusiasts.

As a young, aspiring tournament pro, I was fully aware of Tim's writings. So when his call came, I didn't hesitate.

Little did I know the full impact this encounter would have on my career. Tim's article basically discussed my approach to fishing hydrilla at its various stages of growth. And though my techniques were simple, Tim found a way to make them read as if they were pure genius.

Shortly after submitting the article, the magazine's editor asked Tim for a simple diagram that would accurately illustrate the concept. Tim passed that request on to me, and that is when my career as a professional illustrator began. I submitted three drawings, figuring the editor would have an in-house artist recreate them for the magazine. In a few days I received a phone call from Dave Precht, then Senior Editor of Bassmaster. He informed me that he intended to run the drawings as is, and asked me if I would consider working with the magazine on a regular basis. In total disbelief, I eagerly accepted.

That first meeting with Tucker not only resulted in my own feature in a major fishing publication -- something aspiring pro anglers dream of -- it also resulted in my first published illustrations.

I graduated with a art degree from the University of Florida in 1979. But until that time, I had never found a way to make art truly profitable. I'm proud to say that Tim Tucker was the catalyst in both my fishing and art careers.

Since then, more than twenty years have passed. Last week Tim Tucker died tragically in an automobile accident. Services were held near his home in Gainesville, Florida. According to church officials, more than 700 people were in attendance, including Roland Martin and numerous other touring pros, PGA pro Woody Blackburn, and NBA star Eric Montross. Also in attendance were many professionals from the outdoor community, including writers, columnists, photographers and editors. Many industry related people also attended. Even a few lure collectors.

It was a very moving service.

Tim's wife, Darlene, gave an eloquent account of their life together. She spoke flawlessly for more than 20 minutes, injecting humor, wit and sarcasm...things Tim had a great appreciation for. Others also spoke, including his son Kyle's little league coaches. The entire team showed up in full-dress uniforms, to pay tribute to their lost leader. That was particularly moving, as Tim's passion for kids and sports were made crystal clear.

Many of you will recall Tim's article on collecting old lures, which recently appeared in Bassmaster Magazine. What most of you probably didn't realize is that Tim was also a collector of vintage tackle. Although his collection was modest, he did enjoy the hobby and its players.

Tim wrote other articles on collecting tackle. Another recently appeared in Florida Fishing Weekly, and another in The Gainesville Sun. If it pertained to fishing, Tim would research it, then write about it.

He won over 100 writing awards, and was a prominent member of SEOPA and the OWAA. He wrote numerous books on the subject of fishing, including works with Roland Martin and Bill Dance. I'm proud to say that Tim called on me to illustrate those books.

Thanks Tim!...for giving me a head start in a tough business.

Bernie Schultz

Posted by: Ed Hardin

Tim was one of the last of the dinosaurs, and he would know what I mean by that. He was an Outdoors writer from the day when outdoors writers lived and worked apart from the rest of the paper, even from the sports department. I would see him once at year at the Classic, and we would pick up the conversation where we'd left off the year before, usually about being a dying breed in a dying business. We felt the same way about the slow death of newspapers and the imminent end of the Outdoors Page nationwide. We agreed that instead of trying to give readers what the surveys told us they wanted, we should decide ourselves what the readers wanted and give them that without asking. Why? Because we know our readers better than they know themselves. Tim and I argued about a lot of things, but we agreed that the recent fascination with "community'' news is a crock. Outdoors writers have been giving readers community news for 100 years, and we didn't need a survey or a marketing-inspired logo to beat the reader over the head with it. For all the angst editors and publishers spent on trying to figure out what readers did with their spare time, all they had to do was ask the Outdoors writer, and he could tell them: Our readers play golf; our readers go bass fishing. The rest of them don't really matter. Tim was one of my heroes. God must've needed an Outdoors editor quick, and he got tired of waiting for Bodie.

Posted by: Dan Roth

Tim was the outdoor editor of The Palm Beach Post in the mid-80s when I worked sports desk there. His enthusiasm and laugh were infectious; every week, he'd pile 6-7 of us in the back of his pickup and drive us to Sonny's BBQ on the Trail. You really couldn't say no to Tim. He was the real deal; he could talk political smack with an uppity Easterner like me or shoot the bull with a grit bass angler from the Deep South. When I think about my days in WPB, Tim is among the first people that come to mind. I am sorry to hear of his passing

Posted by: John Temple

Tim was the outdoors writer, and sometime copy editor at the Palm Beach Post when I arrived there in the early 1980's. He was the first person to make me, a Yankee from North Jersey, feel welcomed. We were understaffed, underpaid and overworked, but Tim's laugh and good humor helped us overlook all that, especially on Fridays and Saturdays in the fall. His bad moods were better than most everyone's good moods. I've always appreciated that. I'll keep a good thought for you.

Posted by: Jesus Exposito

Apollogize for my english, I'm writing this message from Spain. Tim helped me to love bass fishing with his stories and articles Just a few minutes I've seen the new on Bassmaster and I couldn't believe it.I'm so aflicted. This is an anormous loose for all the bass fishing world. I want to make arrive my condolence at his family at this sad moment.

Posted by: Tracy Nix Lake Fork

Tim, save me a seat next to God. We'll show Him how to fish and he can show us how to walk on water. Miss you.

Posted by: Tim Horton

The thing that intrigued me most about Tim was his love for his family. A conversation never happened between he and I without the discussion of Darlene, Kyle or Rachael. The first time we met Darlene cooked supper for Mel and I at a cabin in North Alabama. Kyle and Rachael were just toddlers still in walkers. We became great friends over the next ten years, so much so we could disagree on things and let each other know how we felt, and still respect each others stance. When you can do that you have a true friend. When you hear of someones passing and everyone mentions how much of a family man that person was, there can not be a greater compliment. You will be greatly missed,Your Friend, Tim Horton

Posted by: Sam Sanders

Yesterday when I was trying to put the words on paper from the thoughts in my heart, it made me think of the gift that Tim had. He could transfer words from his mind, write a story and capture you. You couldn’t put the article down until you had read it all. It was truly a gift. Tim had different lives, he had his journalism friends, outdoor life, and all his fishing friends. He had his family, wife Darlene, 2 kids Rachel and Kyle, his parents and his sisters. Then he had his second family the kids and coaches from Micanopy sports, that is the family I am from. I would like to talk about Tim's love of children. Tim loved baseball, everybody that knew Tim knows that. He loved the sport but he loved the children more. He coached with love, he supported all the kids when things went well he praised them. He would call them by there first name and give them his last name…Austin Tucker, Ethan Tucker, Logan Tucker, Trey Tucker, Thomas Tucker, Justin Tucker, EJ Tucker, Clay Tucker, Kyle Tucker, Matt Tucker, Phillip Tucker, Jacob Tucker, Josh Tucker and Dakota Tucker. He found a time to single out each kids individual accomplishment and praise them verbally out loud. When things didn't go well in a game he was first to touch or hug a kid and say NO HARM DONE, nobody's hurt, we can get it back the game is not over yet. He used to say the beauty of playing baseball if there was a bad play and it didn't go well the very next play could go perfect and the bad play was forgotten. Life at the ballpark will never be the same. Tim was my friend, his vehicle was the first one I looked for when I got there and it was always there. Tim would want us to keep being involved in the lives of children to help provide a safe loving but competitive atmosphere for all the Tucker kids. Tim use to tell me I was his brother from another mother, I will always cherish our friendship. On a personal note I would like to thank Darlene, Rachel and Kyle for sharing Tucker with the Sanders Family and the ballpark family.

Posted by: The Hathorne

To the friends and family of the tuckers we will miss U and your articles will be deeply missed.

Posted by: David Zabolio

Tim was the only sports writer to write about me. There was an artical in the May 1999 issue of BASSMATER Magizine after almost winning my first B.A.S.S tournament, I was 3rd after the secound round. These words have giving me the drive to keep at the game of professional bass fishing. David Zabolio La, Pro

Posted by: STEVE BOSCHETTI

JUST CAUGHT UP WITH MY BASSMASTER MAGIZINE AND LEARNED OF THR TERRIBLE LOSS OF TIM. HAVE READ EVERY ARTICLE HE HAS WRITTEN OVER THE YEARS IN BASS. SO SHOCKED AND TERRIBLY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.I AM SURE THAT HIS MANY MANY FRIENDS HRIUGHOUT THE BASS FIHING WORLD HAVE BROGHT SOME COMFORT TO YOUR FAMILY IN THESE TRYING TIMES. FROM THE BOSCHETI FAMILY IN NEW JERSEY, PLEASE ACCEPT OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES FOR YOUR LOSS. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND TIM.

Posted by: Tripp Glawson

I used to manage Bienville Plantation in White Springs,FL. My family still owns it. I don't get to visit very often, but last week I was there and heard the news of what happened to Tim. It broke my heart. I haven't seen Tim in over 8 years but I remember what an awesome guy he was and I know he will be missed by thousands of people all over the country. I give my best wishes and condolences to his family. Tripp Glawson

Posted by: Kelton Tanji

I am a bass fisherman from Hawaii, for the past 25 years. I have always read Tims articles and so forth, I have learned a lot about fishing and also about people. His knowledge helped me win over a hundred club tournaments. I will surely miss him. Aloha !

Posted by: Steve Carpenter

I used to run into Tim frequently at SEOPA meetings back in our salad days. Although we were about the same age, he was a seasoned pro but always willing to give a word of advice to a newcomer in the world of outdoor writing. He was an inspiration and I always read his work carefully to see how it should be done. It is heartening to see so many posts (many by old friends and names I remember) here attesting to the influence Tim had on people's lives. He will be missed. Sincere condolences to Tim's family in their time of grief.

Posted by: Betty Tucker

I married into the Tucker family when Tim was 5 years old. He quickly became like a brother to my 3 younger brothers. Even as an adult, you couldn't tell him that he wasn't related to the Allison's because I was his aunt and that made him cousins to my brothers - and they felt the same toward Tim. Tim had a very generous, giving heart and was much loved by our family. My husband (Tim's Uncle Carl)and I were so very proud of him and his accomplishments. We truly miss him! Darlene, Kyle & Rachel, our hearts symphatize with you and the rest of your family. We love all of you! !

Posted by: TJ Noor

Tim was a great man and a great journalist. He truly inspired me to be a better writer. No doubt about it, i do remember him writing me E-mails. Have a Good one Tim, and we will all Remember you...

Posted by: Danielle Hayward Schaaf

I am so saddened to hear of Tim's death! Darlene, Rachel and Kyle, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. I knew Tim back in high school when we worked together on the school paper. Even then, Tim was a gifted writer. Everyone knew he was going places in the world of journalism. He was such a hard worker (not your typical teen), kind, caring and funny. I see from all the messages left here that he didn't change much in the past 35 years. We lived in the same neighborhood and Tim would often drop in for a visit - usually with my parents! At a time when most teenagers avoided adults, Tim was comfortable enough to come into the house and stay for hours talking about everything under the sun. Debi, Jay and I send our condolences and prayers. Please take comfort in knowing that he touched so many lives.