DONALD GENE STUCKEY
Services: Oct. 9.
Donald Gene Stuckey, 77, was born Sept. 21, 1941, on the family farm in Lathrop, Mo., the son of Walter and Berneice (Warner) Stuckey. He died Oct. 5, 2018.
He graduated from Lathrop High School in 1959 and from the University of Missouri in 1963 with an agriculture degree.
On Sept. 1, 1963, he was united in marriage with Deanna Akers.
They farmed near Columbia, Mo., for three years before buying a Mercer County farm. An innovative farmer, he incorporated unique techniques in his hog operation, row crops and managing his cow herd’s genetics — all while being allergic to cattle!
He was involved in his children’s education in both school and life. He taught by example the importance of a strong work ethic, treating others with kindness and respect, and being honest and fair.
In 1979 the family moved to Plad in Dallas County. He continued raising cattle, keeping meticulous records.
He was active in the United Methodist Church all his adult life and was a 30-year 4-H leader. He was a leader in Mercer County Hog Producers, Soil and Water District, Dallas County Farm Bureau and Cattlemen’s Association. He was involved in education, serving on the Mercer County School Board and Long Lane PTA. He taught high school science one year and GED classes in Buffalo, Mo., for the past 18 years.
He enjoyed caring for his cattle, tending the land, running the combine, playing games and working puzzles. He always helped others and cherished being in the Buffalo UMC Choir, which was like family to him. He was a hardworking man who could be as stubborn as they come, but always kind and generous with his time. He loved the Lord, his family and his land.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Stuckey, and sister-in-law, Nada; sister, Marjorie VanZant; and grandson, Douglas Bernelis.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Deanna Stuckey; two daughters: Colleen Bernelis, Bay City, Mich., and Lori Izworski (Brian), Fulton, Mo.; two sons: David Stuckey, Russellville, Mo., and Brian Stuckey (Casey Mills), Windyville, Mo.; two brothers: James Stuckey (Bev Santo), Prescott, Ariz., and Richard Stuckey (Sandy), Kearney, Mo.; brother-in-law, Roy VanZant, Mulvane, Kan.; six grandchildren: Cody Sneed (Brittany), Ashley Sneed, Amber Bernelis, Alyssa Izworski, Brianna Izworski and Christian Izworski; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends who will miss him dearly.
