Jennifer Lee (Dunkleberger) Rucker

Jennifer Lee Rucker  

August 26, 1984-May 16, 2024

Our Jenny was a devoted and loyal Mom, Daughter, Sister, Niece, Cousin, and Friend. Jesus called her home on May 16 to finally be pain free and whole once again. It was a long and gallant battle for many years after being injured serving as an Emergency Medical Technician. She was doing what she did best- serving others and putting them first.

 Jenny was born August 26^th, 1984. She is survived by her four amazing daughters, Lily (17), Bailee (15), and her twins, Cali and Cami (12). Her Mama and Dad, Paula and Garry Nichols. Brother- Joshua Dunkleberger (Carly Togher), Nieces - Aubrey, Addy and Nephew-Reid. Step Brother- Phillip (Lindsey) Nichols-Nieces Mary Jayne (Levi), Lilliana, Nephews-Colin and Dom. Step Brother- Garry Nichols, Biological father- Douglas Dunkleberger

Jenny was also blessed to have a very large extended family who provided endless love and support. She enjoyed being with her Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, and Nephew so much and always looked forward to our big family gatherings. She recently expressed how much she loved getting together with all of them.

Family and Friends who stood by her side know who you are, she appreciated you so very much. Thank you for wrapping your love and kindness around her.

Jenny’s four daughters have been the light of her world since they were born. They are the reason that she fought so hard to stay on this earth. She adored her children and wanted so badly to see them grow up and fulfill all of the dreams that they so often shared with her. She always told them that they could do anything and she would try to show them how to overcome the adversities that this world sometimes throws at us. They are sweet, kind, wonderful, respectful individuals because of her. She loved them more than anything. She taught them life values, independence, and to always care about others. She always wanted them to know that riches on earth are not what matters. She would tell them to always treat everyone the same, be non-judgmental and remember to always to treat others the way you want to be treated. She told them every day,” I love you to the moon and back my babies!” She did and will love them now from heaven above.

Jenny had a special relationship with her brother, Josh, he was her hero. They would defend each other to the end, make each other laugh and everyone else in the room. Their shenanigans would keep Dad and Mama on their toes, but touch their hearts as they knew that the two of them had a relationship rare for siblings. She loved her brother so very much. She spoke with pride at the relationship they had.

Jenny and her Mama were together on a daily basis. There were phone calls throughout the day to discuss whatever was going on and what was happening. She was her Mama’s girl and the memories of her life will have to fill the deep sorrow that is left. Jenny brought so much love and joy to her Mama. She will be missed beyond any expression of words. 

Jenny was an avid reader- reading over 3000 books in the last 4 years. She created beautiful cross stitch projects. She taught her four girls the love of crafting, and creating something amazing with your hands. Her projects had meaning and a story behind each one. She completed many projects for people who just happened to pass her way. She was selfless and each of the time-consuming pieces were always for someone else. She used her talents to share her love and concern for others. Jenny was also an avid gourmet cook. Her creations amazed us. There was never a recipe or a dish too hard for her to create. They always looked and tasted like a professional had created them. She truly enjoyed creativity. She had a beautiful voice and sang frequently. The talents she had were used to bring happiness to someone else and to share joy in a unique way. 

She was never too ill to attempt to do something for a neighbor, friend, or family member. She was loyal beyond measure. She will be remembered for her loyalty, integrity and deep love for the ones closest to her.

There are no words that can adequately express the pain in our hearts as we say our good-byes to our Jenny. There is a permanent piece of the puzzle missing until we all meet again in heaven. She will forever and always be in our hearts.

Jesus gained an angel on May 16,2024. We lost our Mom, Daughter, Sister, Niece, Cousin, Friend. We have comfort knowing that she will no longer have the earthly struggles, but our hearts are heavy as we say so long for now. We love you so and miss you so very much! 

We know that Jenny would want us to thank the following people:

Pastor Jeff Zigler- you provided peace and love when she needed it most

Church Family - Power of Prayer

Family Members and Friends- Constant Prayer and Support

Multiple Health Professionals over the years too many to list.

Dr. Kamran, hospice, Dr. Kahn, Westville Schools-Love and Support.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN.  Visitation will be on May 24 from 12:30 pm until 1:30 pm at the First Church of God 2020 E. Lincolnway La Porte, IN 46350. A life celebration will begin at 1:30 pm at the church with Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. After the service family and friends are gathering at Kessling Park 2150 A Street La Porte, IN 46350 Shelter #4. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the to the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.