Marilyn Tucker

MARILYN R. TUCKER

Cedar Rapids

Marilyn R. (Shima) Tucker, 90, passed away on April 7, 2021, at The Villages at Marion assisted living community.

Born in Solon, Iowa, on Dec. 18, 1930, Marilyn was

the daughter of Mary Brennan Shima and Frank Shima. Marilyn graduated from high school at the age

of 16, with the dream of one day attending college. A lifelong learner, Marilyn achieved this goal upon her graduation from Coe College in 1977, one of the first students to graduate in their Continuing Education Program. Marilyn was the owner of Tucker Personnel Consultants (along with husband Bob) for many years until her retirement.

Marilyn's passion in life was helping to increase access for women seeking higher education. Through her 50-year relationship with American Business Women's Association, she advocated for young women to achieve both educational goals and equal opportunities in the workplace. She modeled her values and inspired through her roles of increasing influence held with this organization, first as North Central District Vice President, then as National First Vice President, achieving the highest position in the organization as National President in 1970-1971. For the remainder of her life, Marilyn maintained an active role in shaping this organization and furthering women's access to higher education.

As a result of her pivotal role in ABWA, Marilyn was identified and appointed by Iowa Governor Robert Ray to multiple consecutive terms on the Iowa College Aid Commission and the Iowa Higher Education Loan Authority, ending in 1989. Marilyn's vision, focus and unceasing work ensured a lasting impact on countless students throughout the state.

Marilyn was a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish and served as a volunteer with organizations that were close to her heart during her retired years. A long-term member of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization), Marilyn fully supported their mission of providing educational opportunities for women worldwide. As a volunteer with the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library Marilyn demonstrated pride in her Czech heritage (her kolaches were legendary) and was a steadfast supporter of the Czech Guild.

Preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Robert A. Tucker; and daughter, Cynthia Tucker Shaffer, Marilyn is survived by children, Daniel Tucker of Marion, Iowa, Colleen Tucker of Monument, Colo.; grandchildren, Catherine Tucker Arnold of Columbus, Ohio, Sarah M. (Maggie) Tucker of Monument, Colo.; and a brother, Daniel Shima of Eldridge, Iowa.

A private memorial service will be held at Cedar Memorial on May 19. Marilyn will be interred with husband Robert at that location.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library or Compassus Hospice.

A special note of appreciation is offered to Compassus Hospice as well as the staff of The Villages at Marion for the loving care provided to Marilyn in her final days.