JOHN RICHARD (DICK) WILSON

Dick was born in Alpena, Michigan on April 26, 1928. He graduated from Alpena High School and went on to graduate from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1950. Following graduation, at age 22, Dick joined the U.S. Air Force and trained to become a Fighter Pilot. In 1952 he was sent to the Korean War and flew 100 combat missions in an F-80 Fighter Dive Bomber. He was discharged in 1954 with an active rank of 1st Lieutenant.

Dick married Audrey Bailey of Alpena in 1953.

After being discharged from the service they moved to Alpena where Dick joined the Bailey family insurance business – Alpena Agency, Inc.. Dick became President of Alpena Agency in 1977 and significantly grew the business until his retirement in 1999. Dick was the first Michigan insurance professional to obtain the CPCU designation, he is a past President of the Independent Insurance Association of Alpena and served on the Board of Directors of the Independent Agents of Michigan. Dick was considered an expert in his field and was known for his honesty, insurance knowledge, and dedication to his customers.

Dick also has a long record of community service. He was past President of the Alpena County Cancer Society, the Alpena County United Way, the Alpena Kiwanis Club, the Northeast Michigan Community Foundation, and the Jesse Besser Museum. Dick was also on the Board of Directors of People’s Bank and Trust. In addition, he was on the Board of Directors of the Besser Foundation for 26 years serving as President from 1991 to 2005. He made significant leadership contributions as President of the Besser Foundation and saw the Foundation make many important contributions to the Alpena community.

Most importantly, Dick was a wonderful family man, father and husband. Always humble and was not known to raise his voice or complain. He was extremely generous with his children in time, advice and love. Like his children once did, his grandchildren enjoyed special times with grandpa — going to the zoo, the park or long car rides with the convertible top down. His friends all knew Dick as quick to laugh and have fun — and he always had a corny old joke or story to tell. He had many friends throughout his life and will be greatly missed.

Dick is survived by his wife Audrey, three children; Lisa (Keith) Gohlke, Steven (Kelley) Wilson, and Peter (Lynn) Wilson; five grandchildren, Jennifer (Dustin) Hughes, Andrew (Lauren) Gohlke, Claire (Tanner) Kostelic, Ashley Wilson and Erin Wilson; and three great grandchildren.

A private service will be held by the family.