AN OUTSPOKEN ex-Pinner councillor and renowned Punch and Judy showman died on December 6.
John Tuck, 77, was visiting his son Simon in Bedford, where he collapsed and died of a heart attack. He had been experiencing health problems.
The ex-Liberal Democrat councillor represented the now defunct Pinner West ward from 1994 to 1998.
He moved from Pinner to Telford in 1999 and became very attached to his guide dog Simpson, after developing problems with his sight in recent years.
After serving on Harrow Council for two years, Mr Tuck became an independent candidate with Herbert Crossman, who told the Observer: “He was a great guy and very friendly, but also quite outspoken. He was always trying to get the best for the people of the borough and his ward.”
His friend Ken Whitcombe, who fundraised with Mr Tuck for a guide dog’s charity, added: “He was a very active member of the community and was a keen fundraiser.”
The former resident of Canterbury Road in North Harrow fought for the preservation of the church field at St George’s, where he had served as church warden.
He was also involved with the Boys’ Brigade, the Masons and was a magistrate. He also showed his humorous side through performing as a clown and magician and staging Punch and Judy shows across Harrow under the name Ronnie Alden.
His son Simon said: “All of us will miss him dearly. Everyone who ever met dad would say they would never forget him.
“He truly was a character of life, joy and a generous spirit and, in the words of Mr Punch, ‘That’s the way he did it!’”
Margaret, wife of the former councillor and retired printer, died two years ago.
Mr Tuck is survived by sons, Simon, 41, and Mark, 33, and 42-year-old daughter, Anne-Margaret. He also had five grandchildren – Bethany, Daniel, Rebekah, Joshua and Maliaka.
The funeral was held on Thursday last week at Telford Crematorium and it is requested that any donations be made to Mr Tuck’s guide dog charity.
