Jeffrey Tukua, 46

Jeffrey Allen Tukua, age 46, of Hastings, died unexpectedly on Oct. 22.

Jeff was born in Albert Lea, Minn., to Sharon (Venem) and Dale Tukua. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1985, received his heavy equipment operator certification from the Staples Vocational School, and worked as a heavy equipment operator for years. He married Becky Klem on Sept. 11, 1993, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.

Jeff was a member of the 49ers, was an avid card player, and loved to ride his horse, Uno, and go camping with family and friends. His infectious laugh and competitive spirit will be missed by all.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandparents and nephew Robbie.

He is survived by his wife, Becky, and their two beautiful daughters, Nicole and Rachel, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his mother, Sharon (Ed) Parkin, and father, Dale Tukua, all of Hastings; siblings, Daryl Tukua of Hastings, Cheryl Tukua of Stillwater, Christie (Dennis) Thurmes of Hastings, and Amber Tukua of Oak Park Heights; also several nieces and nephews and many other family and friends.

The memorial service, officiated by Rev. Lloyd Menke, will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 26, at Our Saviour's Ev. Lutheran Church, 400 W. Ninth St., Hastings. Interment will follow in Lakeside Cemetery, Hastings. Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, at Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home, 201 E. Seventh St., Hastings, and 1 hour prior to service at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to American Diabetes Association.

Arrangements were handled by the Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home, Hastings, 651-437-9419, www.caturia-smidtfh.com.

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