In Loving Memory of Ermelinda M. Tucker

Ermelinda M. Tucker, a beloved mother, sister, and respected research scientist, passed away on May 17th, 2023. She leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and numerous contributions to the field of Molecular Biology. Her unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and work will forever be cherished.

She traveled around the world when she left the Philippines with her friend in 1968. They travelled to Asia, Europe, and settled in Canada where she taught in a Catholic elementary school. Then she arrived in New York and soon made her way to Pittsburgh, PA to reunite with her dear aunt, Adele. Pittsburgh became her new home when Ermelinda embarked on a journey to the United States later in1968. It was during this time that she would begin to shape her remarkable career and build a life filled with love and adventure.

Ermelinda started her career as a biology educator in the Philippines, teaching the subject with passion and enthusiasm from 1964 to 1968. In 1969, she joined Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she worked as an Instructor and Technician in Biology. It was there that she met her future husband, Bryan J. Tucker. Their connection grew, and they became engaged on November 15, 1970, and subsequently married on May 22, 1971.

In 1976, Ermelinda and her husband relocated to the picturesque city of San Diego, California. They settled in Ranch Penasquitos, where they built a loving home. Their family grew with the arrival of their daughter, Jennifer L. Tucker, on March 12th, 1979. Although Ermelinda and Bryan later parted ways in 1990, she remained a devoted mother, always caring and supportive of her daughter's endeavors.

Throughout her career, Emerlinda made significant contributions as a research scientist. From 1977 to 1987, she served on the staff of UCSD as a Senior Staff Research Associate. She continued her research journey at SIBIA from 1987 to 1987. Finally, she joined QED Biotech as a Manager of Cellular Biology, where she dedicated her expertise until her well-deserved retirement.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ermelinda found immense joy in various hobbies and passions. She was a talented painter, delighting in the world of watercolor and acrylics, and showcasing her work in galleries across Southern California. She loved to travel, exploring new places, cuisines, and creating lasting memories. Ermelinda also had a knack for playing the piano, indulged in reading during her downtime, and found solace in tending to her beautiful rose garden. Additionally, she had an eye for fashion and would often be found seeking out the perfect ensemble or hunting for the best deals.

Ermelinda will be remembered for her unwavering love, cheerfulness, creativity, intelligence, and compassionate nature. She was a dependable and independent individual, always putting others before herself. Her kindness touched the lives of many, and her thoughtfulness resonated daily. Ermelinda had a special bond with her siblings, Teresita Manas, Salvador Manas, Nerissa M. Mariano, Angelito Manas, Reynaldo Manas, Carmencita Manas, Marlene M. Parro, Josephine M. Bumanlag. Their connection was strong, and she cherished her role as the eldest sibling.

In addition to her siblings, Ermelinda leaves behind her beloved daughter, Jennifer, who will forever treasure the love and guidance she received. She is also survived by a host of relatives and friends who were touched by her warm spirit and generous heart.

Visitation and a prayer service will take place from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Hultgren Funeral Home in Wheaton, IL. Relatives and friends are invited to meet directly at St. Michael Catholic church, 310 S Wheaton Ave, Wheaton, IL 60187, for a funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. (CST) A livestream of the mass will be provided for those unable to attend in person. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and share their memories of Ermelinda.

Ermelinda M. Tucker, will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a loving mother, an esteemed scientist, and a beacon of strength. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire kindness and compassion for generations to come.

"Perhaps they are not stars but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy." - Eskimo Proverb