Richard Allan Lau

Richard "Dick" Allan Lau, 81, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2011 in Dallas, TX. Richard was born on September 22, 1929 in Lincoln, Nebraska. He graduated from Lake Forrest Academy in 1948 and the University of Nebraska in 1952 having earned a masters degree in Business Administration. While attending the university he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.

He served in the US Navy from July 1952 until May 1954 when he was honorably discharged as a yeoman seaman. He served aboard the USS Compton (DD705) during the Korean Conflict.

After his tour of duty in the military, Richard worked in the life insurance industry for many years and eventually owned and operated his own business, Special Risk Underwriters, until his retirement. He was a long time member of the Dallas Association of Life Underwriters and a 32nd Degree Mason. Richard had a lifelong fondness for high performance and antique automobiles and was a regular auto shows, swap meets and auctions. His interests also included boats and other watercraft, and of course, his special love of South Padre Island.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Willard Leroy Lau and Thelma LaVonne Stotts Lau, his son Eric Allan Lau, and daughter, Leslie McNeil. He is survived by his son, Kirk Allan Lau, his long time friend and companion, Glenna Hoff, his godson, Kenny Birdsell, his two beloved canine companions, Dusty Marie and Tootsie Sue and numerous friends.

A memorial service will be held in the chapel of the Ted Dickey Funeral Home West home on Saturday, July 23, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. Richard will be laid to rest on Friday, July 29, 2011 at the D/FW National Cemetery at 9:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Operation Kindness or the Salvation Army.