Joel Rucker

Joel Rucker

64, of Libby

Joel A. Rucker, Jr., 64, of Libby, passed away at his home of natural causes on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016. He was born Dec. 23, 1951, in Great Falls to Joel A. and Betty (Vinion) Rucker, Sr.  

Joel grew up and attended school in Libby, graduating from Libby High School with the Class of 1969. He then went on to college in Great Falls, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree. Joel returned to Libby, starting his career as a plumber for Rucker’s Plumbing and Heating and eventually obtained his Master Plumbing license. He started his own business and retired in 2009 after 40 years of serving the Lincoln County community.

Joel enjoyed baseball and even coached a women’s softball team. He also very much enjoyed hunting and was an avid outdoorsman, but most of all, Joel loved being a father and even mentioned he felt God had put him on this earth to be a dad. He touched many and will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Joel is survived by his beloved wife Renee Rucker of Libby; his children Joel Rucker III (Joey) of Libby, Jason Switzer of Libby, Nicki Switzer of Columbia Falls, Ken Long of Washington, Dan Long of Washington, Jim Long of Libby and Gary Fenton of Libby; sister Janna Parsons of Washington; brother Jim Rucker of Columbia Falls and stepmom Bobbie Rucker of Libby.

A celebration of Joel’s life will be held for friends and family on May 21, 2016. Time and location will be announced at a later date. Local arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home of Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenberghf.com.