TRUE, Richard Allen (Dick)

Richard Allen "Dick" True, age 70, passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 9, 2007, after a courageous battle with cancer. Dick is preceded in death by his father Carl and his sister Virginia. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Carol, his mother Gladys, his children Carl (Linda), Holly (Sam) and Dick Baker, as well as his brothers Kenny and Donald. Papa T, as he was affectionately known by his friends and family, had a contagious smile and quick wit that instantly drew in anyone who came in contact with him. Dick was born in Akron, Ohio, on August 6, 1936 and moved to Phoenix in 1966. Dick's professional career spanned 30+ years in the finance and banking industries with United and Citibank and with Transamerica and First Financial Title. During his career he accomplished many successes, including the creation and development of United's Consumer Lending division, where he was ultimately promoted to Vice President. It was Dick's never-ending work ethic, dedication and unwavering morals and ethics that allowed him to become known throughout the Arizona banking and finance communities as someone who could be counted on for honest, fair business practices. It was also these qualities that helped him to develop many professional and personal friendships that he maintained through his life until his passing. Although Dick had a successful professional career it always took a back seat to his personal and family life. Papa T learned early in life that family and friends came first, and that was how he lived life, with a willingness to sacrifice anything to give of himself unselfishly for anyone. Nothing was more satisfying than to spend a day with his wife, kids and grandkids Ryan, Zach, Wyatt, Brayden, Chelsea, Steven, Kathy, Josh and Courtney hanging out at the pool, taking family vacations or spending time with his life partner, Carol. If he wasn't spending time with his family he was at the place that he enjoyed most, the golf course. A natural athlete, he had a passion for golf and the challenge it brought. He lived life like a game of golf, taking one shot at a time and reacting to the difficulty of the previous shot with a will to make the next shot the best he possibly could. Papa T, you will be greatly missed, but we know that we will all see you again soon. Thank you for the legacy you've passed down to all of us! A memorial service was held at Shiloh Community Church, 19021 N 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85050. Donations can be made on Dick's behalf to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014-5656 or Christian Family Care Agency, 3603 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Published in The Arizona Republic from 6/14/2007 - 6/15/2007.