Harry Lan Tucker MD

Harry Lan Tucker, MD., died on Sunday, April 6, 2014 at his home in Winter Park, Fl., ending his lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 78. Dr. Tucker is survived by his wife of 30 years, Eileen “Renee” Tucker, their son Lawrence Tucker, his daughters DeLan Gilliam and Dr. Luci Saha, their husbands Dr. Michael Gilliam and Dr. Sukamal Saha, and his five grandchildren, Cameran, Michael, Luke, Joshua and Matthew. Dr. Tucker did his undergraduate studies in physics at Georgia Tech University. He graduated from Emory University School of Medicine, and began his surgical residency at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. After leaving Atlanta, Dr. Tucker served in the Air Force for three years, achieving the rank of Captain. He served as flight surgeon at Wright Patterson AFB and later as a staff surgeon in Phan Rang, Vietnam. During his military service he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. Upon discharge from the Air Force, Dr. Tucker completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Orlando Regional Medical Center and went on to receive specialized training in hand surgery at Vanderbilt University and hip surgery at Wrightington Hospital in Wigan, England. Dr. Tucker served the Orlando community as an orthopedic surgeon in private practice and as director of the orthopedic residency training program at Orlando Regional Medical Center from 1972 to l990. He was tireless in his pursuit to bring the highest quality care to his patients, and an exceptional educational experience to the medical residents he trained. Upon retiring in l990, Dr. Tucker relocated with his family to Tallahassee, Fl., where he volunteered at Neighborhood Health Services, a needs-based clinic. He returned to the Orlando area in 2013. Having never met a stranger, he was known for his great stories and witty sense of humor. He loved fishing and playing golf with his son and buddies, but his true love was sailing, and it inspired him to learn how to navigate by the stars. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church of Winter Park, Fl., 125 N. Interlachen Ave., on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, 11am. A reception will be held at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to Hospice of the Comforter, 480 W. Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, Fl 32714 Condolences can be sent online at www.acommunityfuneralhome.com

Harry Lan Tucker MD

November 24, 1935 - April 6, 2014