Marie Rucker

Marie Eileen Rucker, 96, of Oronoco died on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at St. Mary's Hospital. Marie was born on May 31, 1924 to Lloyd and Anna (Speich) Alberts in Milton Township, MN near Pine Island. She attended Harkum Rural School in Milton Township and graduated from the Minnesota School of Agriculture in St. Paul. As a young woman in the 1950's she worked for the Rochester Dairy. She married Vernon Rucker on June 6, 1958 in Oronoco. The couple lived and farmed together outside of Oronoco where they owned Rucker Chemical Company and sold farm equipment. Marie enjoyed gardening, jigsaw and crossword puzzles, and sewing. Family was very important to Marie. She worked hard at everything she did and possessed a quiet strength. As the oldest daughter in her family, she helped her mother with cooking, gardening, and caring for younger siblings. As a mother, she often would not sit down for the day until late into the evening. She did it because she loved her family and that was just what needed to be done. Her grandchildren were a special blessing, and for them, going to Grandma and Grandpa's house was going to a place of unconditional love. Faith was an important part of Marie's life, and as her family we are comforted to know she is with her Lord forevermore. Marie is survived by her children, Karen Rucker of Rochester, Kathleen (Lance) Schaefer of Dixon, IL and Kraig Rocker of Oronoco; five grandchildren, Alyssa, Anna, Abbey, Grace and Matthew; sisters, Lois (Bill) Pedersen, Joyce (Don) Gustafson and Mildred (Joe) Pellish. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Vernon, sister, Audrey Alberts; two brothers, Kenneth and Myron Alberts and infant twin brothers. A family graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Oronoco Cemetery in Oronoco, Minnesota. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Rucker family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com