Eve Elizabeth Tucker: Forever a Friend to Animals and People Alike

Eve Elizabeth Tucker arrived in the world on December 5, 1977, in Dallas, Oregon. Five days later, she was joyfully adopted by Elizabeth Van Wormer and Malcolm Miller of Lake Oswego, Oregon, completing a family of five and joining her two older brothers, Lucas (born 1973) and Simon (born 1975).

The whole family was elated when she arrived. After two boys, there had long been hopes for a girl and Eve's arrival felt nothing short of meant to be. Sweet-natured with a big, expressive smile, she wooed the family right away. Yet even as a baby, she made it clear she had a mind of her own: after having her diaper put on, she would lift her hips, adjust it herself, and make sure it was snug and comfortable exactly the way she liked it. Able-bodied, alert, and confidently taking charge from the start, Eve let the world know that she was both gentle and determined…a perfect, special addition to the family.

Later, as part of a blended family, Eve became the youngest of five siblings, with the addition of older brothers Alex (born 1971) and Sam (born 1976). She also became the first daughter for Gil, her adored 'step-monster'. As the youngest and only girl in a household full of brothers, Eve never faded into the background. She matched the energy of her siblings at every turn and was proudly the first to come home needing stitches.

Family lore holds that Eve's first word was not "mom" or "dad," but "Joseph," the name of her first animal friend, a gregarious Irish Setter. This story perfectly captures what would define Eve's life: a deep, instinctual connection to animals that seemed to exist from the very beginning. She was curious, active, and fearless as a child, happiest when swimming, playing with her brothers, or bonding with animals.

That bond deepened when the family adopted Yolanda, a young German Shepherd being trained as a service dog. Though still very young herself, Eve connected with Yolanda in a way that astonished those around her. She seemed to intuitively understand the dog's intelligence and inner world, a gift that would follow her throughout her life. Over the years, many cherished pets, including Onyx, Theo, Omar, Finn and Stewart were lucky enough to be loved by Eve.

Eve adored horses and, as a teenager, worked tirelessly cleaning stalls at her local country club in exchange for ride time, never shying away from hard work to be close to the animals she loved.

She later attended the University of Oregon, where she studied history and met her partner, Nathan Tucker. Together, Eve and Nate made their home in Oregon City and built a close-knit community. Many of her friends became her extended family and their gathering spot was the Wichita Bar & Grill. The "Ta" was a hub of connection, comfort, and belonging, woven deeply into Eve's daily life and the family she chose. Other ways Eve found connection and joy included attending the annual Oregon Country Fair, going to concerts to see her favorite bands, and simply spending time with friends.

Eve turned her lifelong passion into a vocation, becoming a groomer at the Lake Oswego Veterinary Clinic, where she worked for 23 years. She was beloved by clients and animals alike. Eve kept meticulous notes on every pet she cared for, remembering not just their grooming needs but their personalities and quirks.

After years of caring for and grooming hundreds of pets, walking through downtown Lake Oswego with Eve felt like strolling beside a vice mayor as everyone seemed to know her. Eve always asked, by name, how a family's pet was doing, showing genuine interest and remembering details that surprised and delighted her clients. Her love for animals was matched by her care for the people who loved them, and those small, heartfelt exchanges reflected the deep relationships she built through kindness and attention.

Above all, Eve had a big heart. She showed up for people when they needed support, offering love that was emotionally bold, honest, and generous. Her jolly laugh, her warmth, and her deep compassion will be profoundly missed.

Eve is survived by her cherished kitties, Figaro and Ivy.