A distinguished Ohio State alumnus, “Dick” began his prominent career with Allstate Insurance in 1951 as an underwriter. He held a number of management positions in the company prior to being appointed an officer in 1969. Dick was elected president in 1980, chief operating officer in 1982 and chairman and chief executive officer in October 1986.

He was an internationally recognized leader in the industry and was active in many industry organizations and advisory groups. He served as chairman of the Insurance Information Institute, the Insurance Institute of America and the International Insurance Society. In addition, he served on the Sears Board of Directors and was a board member of the Insurance Services Office.

Following his retirement on June 30, 1989, Dick resided in Dallas where he was the executive in residence at the Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business. He also served as a board member of Guaranty Federal Bank, R.L.I. Insurance Company, the Dallas Opera, the Dallas Museum of Natural History, and was board chair of Communities in Schools.