Donald Joseph Tucci

Donald "Don" Joseph Tucci, age 85, resident of Westerville, Ohio passed away peacefully on Monday, July 13, 2026 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Don, a beloved husband, father, Pop, Grandpa, (G Pa), Great Grandpa (GG Pa) left behind a legacy of service and dedication. He was born on September 19, 1940 in Columbus, Ohio. Preceded in death are his father, James J. Tucci, mother, Mary K. (DeCenzo) Tucci, 1st wife, Bonnie Tucci, spouse, Barbara F. Tucci, and twin sister, Donna Pangalangan.

His education began at St. Augustine's Elementary School and continued at St. Thomas Aquinas College High School, Columbus, Ohio. He went on to earn a dual-discipline BS in Mathematics and Civil Engineering from The Ohio State University. Commissioned into the US Navy on the 10 th of May, 1968. During the Vietnam War, Don served honorably aboard the carriers; USS Kitty Hawk, as well as the USS Saratoga. His commitment to education led him to earn a full scholarship, dual-discipline MS, in Computer Science, Business Administration from Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California.

Professionally, Don's career spanned 40 years at various Department of Defense (DOD) Intelligence Agencies and 17 years with NASA, Johnson Space Station, Houston, Texas. He made significant contributions to the Shuttle Operations and the International Space Station; first as a computer analyst and later in information security.

He served 30 years in the US Navy, 14 years active duty, 16 years with Selective Reserve Units, rising to the rank of Commander before retiring. His dedication to community and faith was evident through his membership at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, Sunbury, Ohio.

In addition to his love for motor sports, Don found fulfillment in tinkering with old cars, as well as riding across the country on his motorcycle. He was also an avid bowler.

Don's legacy of integrity, service, and commitment to making a difference will continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by 6 children, Dominic (DeeDee) Tucci, Jane (Nathan) Norris, Barbara Lee (John) Peck, Jacqueline (Gregg) Jordan, Eileen (Jim) Deskins, Francie (Bob) Grden, 19 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren, as well as a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and many cherished friends.

Visitation will take place at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 East Schrock Road, Westerville, Ohio, 43081 on Friday, July 24, 2026, 12:30PM until 3:00PM followed by a commemorative service and eulogy.

Per Don’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at Giammarco’s Italian Restaurant located at 6030 Chandler Ct., Westerville, Ohio 43082.

Private family interment will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at the Pioneer Cemetery, Westerville, Ohio.

Don will be remembered for his kindness, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and country. His impact he had on those around him will be cherished forever.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Salvation Army, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, or the Wounded Warrior Project.