Robert H. Rucker, 84, formerly of rural Columbia City, died at 3:50 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2014, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, where he was transported Sunday from Markle Health & Rehab.

He was born July 26, 1930 in Champagne County, Ohio a son of William E. and Josephine (Hart) Rucker. His formative years were spent in Ironton and Springfield, Ohio.

He served in the United States Army from Aug. 12, 1951 until Aug. 1, 1953, serving during the Korean War.

On April 5, 1968 he was united in marriage to Sharon L. Braddock. They made their home Whitley County.

He was employed at General Electric for 26 years. He was known as “Rocky Rucker”, a Lightweight Golden Glove Boxing Champion.

His memberships included Tri Lakes Baptist Church, GE Boxing Club and American Legion Post No. 98.

Surviving relatives include his wife, Sharon; eight children, Robin (Sharon) Rucker of South Whitley, Chris (Rob Menzie) Cornelius of Warsaw, Kelly Rucker of Ocala, Fla., Laura (Ted) Wisniewski of Cherryville, N.C., Bobbi Jo “BJ” Rucker of Columbia City, Gary (Lisa) Nierman of Columbia City, Linda Eloph of Fort Wayne and Duane (Laurie) Nierman of Columbia City; 15 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and a sister, Mary Louise Verro of Auburn.

A brother, William Rucker, preceded him in death.

The funeral service were held Friday, Aug. 29, Tri Lakes Baptist Church, 5679 N. Center St., Columbia City. The burial was in Blue River Cemetery with military honors presented.

Preferred memorials are to Tri Lakes Baptist Church Food Pantry.

Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City